Burnish gold preparations, commonly referred to as burnish golds or burnished golds, are based on precious metal powders dissolved in oil and resin systems. Within these preparations, additional sub-metals work as adhesion promoters and ensure a good mechanical and chemical adhesion after firing.
To achieve the rich silk matt golden appearance that these gold decorations are known for, the fired metal layer needs to be burnished. Before burnishing, the fired metal layer looks dull and matt. The burnishing process pushes the metal particles into the desired order and the preferred golden silk matt appearance comes to light. Burnishing is typically carried out with glass fibers, often with the help of burnishing machines. Traditionally, sea sand was used.
The fired burnished gold layer is far thicker than the metal layers of bright golds or matt golds. The stronger metal deposit has a positive impact on the decoration’s mechanical and chemical resistance. Depending on the firing conditions and the substrate glaze, burnish gold decorations can achieve excellent mechanical and chemical resistance as well as high dishwasher durability.
