Advertised as "gold leaf" - but what material is it really?

In summary, the conversation discusses the challenges of importing materials from China, specifically imitation gold leaf. The speaker is looking for a local manufacturer but is unsure of the material and production process of the Chinese imitation gold leaf. It is suggested that the material could possibly be metallized film.
  • #1
stoki
2
0
TL;DR Summary
need help in recognizing and sourcing this material
I've been importing this material from China for years. However, shipping is getting more and more expensive, slow and unreliable. It would be a great to have a local manufacturer/supplier but I don't even know what it is. It is advertised as "imitation gold leaf" but... Imitation gold leaf from European suppliers is produced the same way like real gold leaf only gold is replaced by cooper. This Chinese one, when touched, it doesn't feel like metal. Does anyone have an idea what material it is and how it is produced?

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  • #3
That's it. Thank you.
 

FAQ: Advertised as "gold leaf" - but what material is it really?

What is gold leaf?

Gold leaf is a very thin sheet of gold that is commonly used for gilding and decorative purposes. It is made by hammering gold into thin sheets, typically a few micrometers thick, and can be applied to surfaces to give them a gold appearance.

How can I tell if gold leaf is real gold?

To determine if gold leaf is real gold, you can perform several tests, such as a nitric acid test, checking for a hallmark or certification, or consulting with a professional appraiser. Real gold leaf will not tarnish or corrode over time, unlike imitation gold leaf made from other metals.

What materials are commonly used in imitation gold leaf?

Imitation gold leaf, also known as composition leaf or Dutch metal, is often made from a combination of metals such as brass, copper, and zinc. These materials are designed to mimic the appearance of real gold but are less expensive and less durable.

Is imitation gold leaf safe to use in food and drink decoration?

Imitation gold leaf is generally not safe for consumption and should not be used in food and drink decoration. Only genuine gold leaf that is specifically labeled as edible should be used for culinary purposes, as it is made from pure gold and is safe to ingest.

Why is real gold leaf more expensive than imitation gold leaf?

Real gold leaf is more expensive than imitation gold leaf because it is made from genuine gold, which is a precious and valuable metal. The process of creating real gold leaf is also labor-intensive and requires skilled craftsmanship. In contrast, imitation gold leaf is made from less expensive metals and can be produced more cheaply.

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