edible gold leaf

edible gold leaf
5 min read

Gold leaf is a very thin sheet of gold that is typically used for decorative purposes. It is made by hammering pure gold into extremely thin layers, usually measuring around 0.1 microns in thickness. The process of creating gold leaf dates back thousands of years and has been practiced by various cultures throughout history.

Gold leaf is known for its lustrous and reflective properties, which give it a distinctive appearance. It is commonly used in art, architecture, and gilding, where it is applied to surfaces like wood, metal, or stone to create a luxurious and opulent finish. Gold leaf can also be found in various religious and ceremonial objects, such as statues, icons, and altars.

Gold leaf comes in various different thicknesses, qualities and colors. Despite all our efforts to make sure that the thickness of the gold leaf is as even as possible, we can only give an estimate of its thickness, especially since it tends to be a little thinner towards the center of the leaf. The estimated figure is around 1/7000 of a millimeter, or approximately 0.1 µ. This is why it often makes more sense to consider its weight per 1000 leaves, rather than its thickness when purchasing gold-leaf. The thinnest leaves weigh around 12g per 1000, while the heaviest weigh around 50g per 1000 different types of gold-leaf weigh between 16g and 18g/1000. As gold powder and gold flakes are made from gold leaf, their thickness is comparable.

We offer 

DeLafée provides gilding services on various materials. We do not offer gilding services on frames or restoration work. All work is done in Neuchatel, Switzerland or at the our clients' location when the gildng project is performed on buildings. DeLafée has  perovided gilding services on vsrious materials ranging from wood, metals, leathers, minerals, and others. We can complete gilding servcies  on large scale projects as buildings and monuments and small objects as watch dials.  We work with our in-house gilders or patner gilders internationally.

Our Service.

In our atelier, our skilled and inventive team works daily on developing unique creations using gold leaf in various ways. Inspired by gold’s long and rich history as well as contemporary artists and designers, we work with various materials such as leather, wood, mineral, paper, and more.

We create delicacies with edible gold and silver, which are perfect for gifts or special occasions. We design fashion accessories using gold leaf, playing with the beautifying attribute of gold. Using different gold alloys, we design unique decorative accessories to illuminate your interior with the unique glow of gold. We also design custom creations leveraging the unique beauty of gold for private individuals and global luxury brands. 

Edible gold leaf, also known as gold leaf sheets or gold flakes, is a type of food decoration made from pure gold that has been hammered into thin, delicate sheets. It is commonly used in culinary arts to add a touch of luxury and visual appeal to various dishes and desserts. website

Here are a few key points about edible gold leaf:

1. Composition: Edible gold leaf is made from pure gold, which is generally considered safe for consumption. However, it is crucial to ensure that the gold leaf is specifically labeled and certified as "edible" to ensure it meets food-grade standards.

2. Manufacturing Process: Edible gold leaf is produced by hammering gold into extremely thin sheets. The gold used is typically 22 to 24 karats, which means it is quite pure. The thinness of the sheets allows them to be easily applied to food items.

3. Safe for Consumption: Edible gold leaf is generally safe for consumption and passes through the digestive system without being absorbed into the body. However, it is essential to exercise caution and moderation when using gold leaf, as excessive consumption could potentially cause digestive discomfort.

4. Culinary Uses: Edible gold leaf is primarily used as a decorative element in food and beverages. It is commonly applied to desserts, such as cakes, pastries, chocolates, and ice cream, to enhance their appearance. It can also be used to decorate cocktails, truffles, and other gourmet dishes.

5. Handling and Application: When working with edible gold leaf, it's important to handle it delicately as it is fragile and can tear easily. It is usually sold as individual sheets or flakes, and it can be carefully applied to the desired surface using tweezers or a soft brush. The gold leaf adheres to the food's moisture, so it is often applied to slightly moist surfaces.

6. Flavor and Texture: Edible gold leaf is flavorless and odorless, meaning it does not alter the taste or aroma of the food it decorates. It has a very delicate and thin texture, and when consumed, it practically dissolves on the tongue.

Remember, while edible gold leaf can add a luxurious touch to dishes, it is primarily used for aesthetic purposes rather than nutritional value. It's always a good idea to consult with professionals or follow trusted recipes when using edible gold leaf in culinary creations.

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Raymundo Heaney 6
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