Keum-Boo

Keum-Boo is an ancient Korean gilding technique for applying 24K gold to silver. You might also see it written as 금부 (if you read Korean), Geumbu, Kum-Boo, or Kum-Bu. The name basically means “attached gold”.

I think the hardest part about this wonderful technique is the name. It is surprisingly easy - it looks amazing and pretty impressive, but it really is so easy to learn. And, you don't need expensive equipment or a fancy studio to get started. All you need is heat, some gold foil, and a sense of adventure (and some silver to attach the gold to of course).

I love the combination of gold and silver. Whether it is left highly polished, satin or brush finished, or with a patina, I think it is so very beautiful. The contrasting gold adds a little drama, and really draws your eye to it. And of course, adding gold to your silver will add real value; a benefit I think everyone appreciates when it comes to selling! It also makes your jewellery more approachable to customers who mainly wear gold, as the gold accents means your work fit in nicely with gold pieces.

So, give it a go, I think you'll be pleasently surprised with how easy it is. Scroll down for my favourite items to help you succeed, and download my guide below.

Happy making!
Petra