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What is gold leaf?

Gold leaf is real gold that is processed into extremely thin sheets through a complex manufacturing process. In gold leaf production, gold is first melted, rolled, and then repeatedly beaten in multiple stages until ultra-thin gold leaves are created.

This process requires the highest level of precision and experience, as the material becomes finer and more delicate with each step. In traditional manufacturing – as practiced by Noris Blattgold in Schwabach – both modern machinery and skilled craftsmanship play a crucial role.

A particularly important part of the production is continuous quality control. Throughout the entire manufacturing process, the gold leaf is carefully inspected to ensure consistent quality, precise thickness, and a flawless surface. Only in this way can gold leaves meet the high standards required by gilders, restorers, and artists worldwide.

The result is a high-quality natural product made of real gold, distinguished by its exceptional fineness and unmistakable shine, making it ideal for gilding.

What is gold leaf used for?

Gold leaf is used wherever high-quality and durable gilding with real gold is required. Thanks to its unique material properties, gold leaf is suitable for decorative as well as long-lasting and demanding gilding applications both indoors and outdoors.

Typical applications of gold leaf:

  • Gilding of furniture, picture frames, and decorative elements
  • Restoration of historic buildings, churches, and monuments
  • Gold leaf gilding for interior and exterior use
  • Use in art, design, and architecture
  • Lettering, ornaments, and fine details

Real gold leaf is highly durable, as it does not tarnish and retains its shine permanently. For this reason, gold leaf has been used for centuries in gilding and professional restoration.

Anyone looking to buy gold leaf is choosing a material that meets the highest standards both visually and in terms of quality.

What types of gold leaf are available?

Depending on the application and level of experience, different types of gold leaf are available. Noris Blattgold offers both loose gold leaf and transfer gold leaf in a wide range of colors, formats, and alloys.

Transfer gold leaf (patent gold / storm gold)

Transfer gold leaf – also known as storm gold – is attached to a special backing paper, making it particularly easy to handle. The term “storm gold” comes from the fact that the gold leaf remains securely attached to the backing paper even when working outdoors in light wind.

It is ideal for larger surfaces and for beginners who want to apply gold leaf in a controlled and clean way.

Another advantage:
Transfer gold can easily be cut to size using clean, grease-free scissors.

Loose gold leaf

Loose gold leaf is the classic and original form of gilding. It is applied without backing paper and allows for particularly fine, precise, and high-quality gilding.

Special gilding tools are required for processing:

The gold leaf is carefully picked up with the gilder’s tip and can be precisely cut to size on the cushion.

Color variety, formats, and carat

Noris Blattgold offers an exceptionally wide range of variants for different requirements:

  • over 30 gold leaf colors created through different alloys
  • gold content ranging from 6 to 24 carat
  • available as loose gold leaf and transfer gold leaf
  • various sheet sizes from approx. 50 mm to 140 mm
  • standard size: 80 x 80 mm

The finished gold leaf sheets are traditionally packed into booklets of 25 leaves each. Several booklets form a book with a larger quantity of gold leaf, as commonly used in professional applications.

Why gold leaf from Noris Blattgoldfabrik?

Noris Blattgold stands for true craftsmanship and decades of experience in gold leaf production. As a traditional manufacturer from Schwabach, we combine proven techniques with modern production processes and the highest quality standards.

Your advantages:

  • manufactured in Germany since 1876
  • production in Schwabach – center of gold leaf manufacturing
  • in-house production with strict quality control
  • wide range of colors and alloys
  • reliable quality for professional use worldwide

In addition to high-quality gold leaf, we offer a complete range of products for gilding:
This includes perfectly matched and decades-proven Cologne gilding products, high-quality gilding brushes, and other professional gilding supplies for precise and durable results.

At Noris Blattgold, you not only receive genuine gold leaf directly from the manufacturer, but also all materials and tools required for professional gilding – from a single source.

The combination of tradition, in-house production, and coordinated accessories results in products and solutions that meet the highest standards in gilding.

Tips for processing gold leaf

For perfect gilding results, proper application is essential. Only careful work ensures even and long-lasting results.

Key basics for working with gold leaf:

  • The surface must be clean, smooth, and stable
  • Use a suitable adhesive for gilding
  • Carefully apply the gold leaf with the appropriate tools
  • Remove excess material after drying

Careful and precise work is essential for a smooth surface and a durable, high-quality gilding result.