I have always wanted to see the ancient Korean art of Keum-Boo practiced and this week I had the opportunity.

Keum-Boo is a gilding technique of applying gold foil onto silver.  Although, the example I observed applied gold leaf and it does appear that this works just as well.  The silver needs to be fine silver quality or if 925 sterling silver is used then it needs to go through the process (similar to reticulation) of heating and pickling several times to ensure it is suitable for applying the gold.   It is absolutely vital that all items, silver / gold/ tools are exceptionally clean or the gold will not adhere.  The base item is heated to near fusing point and the heat is withdrawn.  Immediately the gold leaf or foil is placed into position with a pair of tweesers or similar and then rubbed thoroughly with a burnisher or suchlike.  Once it has been quenched, provided you cannot scratch it off with your fingernails, then you know you've done a good job.  It produces some amazing effects and here's an example of small piece of gold foil on a silver disc.

During the week, I also added to my Horse Jewellery.  This is one of my Collections where I have wanted to provide more choice for quite a while and the charm was a natural progression. 

I'm intending to add further to the equestrian selection as in the next couple of weeks I will be undertaking some learning with resin setting - now who knows what could come from this process?  What this space!

Lesley x