Keum Boo

Keum boo or Kum boo, is an ancient Korean gilding technique used to apply gold foil to silver or other metals.

Pure precious metal such as silver will bond with gold due to their similar atomic structure. I repeatedly heat and quench the silver to bring up a layer of fine silver to the surface of the metal. This is called ‘depleting’.

Here, I have applied the 24 ct gold foil in small patches. It is applied using both heat and pressure, forming a permanent bond with the silver metal.

Understanding the metal in your jewellery

My pieces are hallmarked as prescribed by the UK Assay Office. Sterling silver pieces that are plated with gold are clearly described as such.

All necklace chains are solid gold or silver.