How to Care for Gold Leaf

Gold leaf is a very thin layer of gold applied as a surface coating, and it must be cared for gently. Gold leaf is bonded to the surface below by either oil gilding or water gilding. Clean gold leaf only by dusting gently with a very soft brush or a feather duster. Washing with water will destroy water-gilded gold leaf, and washing with solvents will destroy oil-gilded gold leaf.

Gold leaf is delicate. Abrasive cleansers will scratch it, and water- or solvent-based cleansers can loosen the bond that holds it to the surface underneath. The delicacy of gold leaf makes it almost impossible to treat with traditional stain removal methods. Instead, try to keep any items gilded with gold leaf free from dust, dirt, or moisture of any kind.

Store items gilded with gold leaf indoors, as moisture, sunlight, and dust can erode the gold leaf. Take extra care with gold leaf–gilded wood, as moisture in the air can cause the wood to swell and crack, damaging the gold leaf.

Gold leaf in poor repair should be professionally replated. Consult an antiques dealer or conservator for estimates.