Gold leaf is manufactured in a wide range of colors and karats. Leaf made from 100% gold is 24kt. To produce a wide variety of colors, copper and silver is mixed with gold. When copper is added, the leaf becomes warmer and richer in tone. When silver is added, the leaf becomes paler in tone. The addition of these other metals lowers the karat value of gold leaf. Gold leaf is manufactured in a range from 9kt "White" to 24kt "Fine Gold".

Gold is completely resistant to corrosion. The addition of silver and copper lowers the resistance of gold leaf to corrosion. However, the copper or silver in 23.75kt or 23kt leaf is so low that it will maintain its integrity outdoors for 30 years or more. A dome, building detail, metal fence or outdoor statue will require a 23kt to 23.75kt leaf that ranges from 96% to 98.5% in purity. Karats less than 23 are recommended for indoor use and many colors and karats are available.

"Bole" - Traditionally, bole is a term that identifies a pigmented clay. This clay acts as the base,
or cushion, for the subsequent layer of gold leaf. Classically terre-cotta in color, the clay can be
built up quickly, then polished to a very smooth surface. Contemporary gilding does not use clay,
but simulates the effect by adding a colored paint that replicates the clay effect.

"Size" - General term used to identify the adhesive that attaches the leaf to a surface.
There are different types of size, depending on the form of gilding.

Water  uses a gelatin size and Animal hide glues.
Oil  (most common ) uses a oil-based size.
Acrylic  uses a water based size.
On glass uses a gelatin size.

"Holiday" - A gilder term that refers to an area were the leaf did not initially adhere.

"Tack" - Refers to the state of the adhesive size. Proper tack for gilding is the point when
the size is not longer wet, but not fully dry, hence it is 'tacky' or just slightly sticky.

"Skewings" - The bits of leaf that are left over after a surface has been completely gilded.
Skewings can be saved for other projects, making excellent fillers for patching holidays.

To speak with a specialist and receive a quote,
Please Call: 330-461-6251
or feel free to email us, Thank you.

 
"WE DO IT RIGHT, WHILE KEEPING COST DOWN IN HIGH PLACES"
Nationwide CIS Steeplejacks, Church Steeple Repair, Spire, Cupola & Dome Specialists
(P) 330-461-6251  Ι  Email: Info@steepleusa.com  Ι  3329 Erhart Rd  Ι  Litchfield, Ohio 44253 Ι www.steepleusa.com

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