Keum Boo, and other gold plating

Keum Boo: What is it?

Keum boo is a beautiful and ancient technique, and it's understandable that you'd want to know more about it. Here's a breakdown:

History of Keum Boo:

• Ancient Korean Origins:

  • Keum boo (also spelled kum-boo or kum-bu) is a traditional Korean technique that translates to "attached gold."  

  • It involves bonding thin sheets of 24k gold to silver.  

  • While its origins are firmly rooted in Korea, similar gilding techniques have been found in other ancient cultures.  

• Cultural Significance:

  • It has been used to create decorative items, jewelry, and other precious objects.  

  • The technique reflects the artistry and skill of ancient Korean metalworkers.

• Modern Revival:

  • Today, keum boo is experiencing a revival among contemporary jewelers and metalsmiths who appreciate its unique aesthetic.  

Overview of How to Do Keum Boo:

• Preparation:

  • The silver surface is often "depletion gilded" to bring a layer of fine silver to the surface. This creates a better bonding surface for the gold.  

  • 24k gold foil is used.  

• Bonding:

  • The silver is heated to a specific temperature.  

  • The gold foil is placed onto the heated silver.  

  • Pressure is applied using a burnisher, which creates a diffusion bond between the gold and silver.  

• Key Factors:

  • Temperature control is crucial.

  • Cleanliness of the metals is essential for a good bond.  

  • Pressure is necessary to facilitate the bonding process.  

There are many types of gold plating. Let’s go over them!

Differences Between Keum Boo, Vermeil, Electroplating, and Clad:

• Keum Boo:

  • A process of diffusion bonding gold foil to silver using heat and pressure.  

  • Creates a relatively thick layer of gold.

  • A mechanical bonding process.

• Vermeil:

  • Sterling silver that is gold-plated.

  • Requires a minimum gold thickness.

  • An electroplating process.

• Electroplating:

  • A process of depositing a thin layer of metal onto a conductive surface using an electric current.

  • Can be used to apply various metals, including gold, to different base metals.  

  • Generally creates a very thin layer of the plating metal.  

• Clad:

  • A process of bonding two or more layers of different metals together.

  • Often involves rolling or pressing the metals together under high pressure.  

  • Creates a layered material.