One thing we’re seeing is aesthetic tastes becoming more elegant. As a result, there is a demand for custom, high quality, environmentally friendly product packaging. Gold foil meets these needs and then some. Not surprisingly, it is incredibly popular and there is high demand for the best foiling services. There is a lot to learn about gold foil though before you commit, so let’s get started.
Is that real gold?
To begin with, many ask if it’s real gold in the foiling. The answer is no. In modern foils, it tends to be about using electroplated aluminium. It’s more cost effective and provides many benefits.
Historically though, there were points when real gold was a common embellishment. As a metal, gold has outstanding oxidation resistance, flexibility, and stability. The softness means it can be hammered into a very thin gold leaf before applying it.
According to historical records, the ancient Egyptians used gold foil to decorate religious and royal items. In medieval Europe, gold foiling was popular for church decorations and religious documents. In China, gold leaf has seen extensive use since the Han Dynasty in cultural relics, Buddhist art, and more.
How modern gold foil works
Now that we know today’s foil doesn’t use actual gold, we need to look at how it works. Modern gold foil is electroplated aluminium. Using the heat transfer to imprint the aluminium layer onto the item’s exterior produces a shiny gold effect. The aluminium foil is cost effective, and also has a good lustre. Moreover, it has strong oxidation resistance. Such a modern gold foiling practice improves the appeal and elegance of products.
For those wondering what electroplated aluminium is, it is a film that has a thin aluminium layer. This happens to obtain an effect like what you get with a gold leaf. Furthermore, aside from classic silver and gold colours, it can produce other shades. Come to us if you’re in need of stellar foiling services.
Applications for packaging and security
Having discussed the ins and outs of gold foil, we can look more into where people use it. You can apply foils to materials like leather, wood, plastic, and paper; the options are almost endless so you can be creative.
With its practical value and distinct features, gold foil sees a lot of use in the packaging industry. One specific area is with high-end product packaging. You can see gold foil on fine wines, cosmetics, and perfumes. It offers the products a high-end, luxurious feel. It is popular for printing and publishing too. Examples include on invitations and book covers.
A more interesting use is in anti-counterfeiting technology. Gold foiling is excellent if you need to create anti-counterfeit marks. It stands out because of its distinct and difficult-to-imitate nature. Such marks are perfect for high-value objects, certificates, and official documents. This works to stop piracy and forgery.
Something else gold foiling can help with is personalised security elements. It can improve the visual effect of custom anti-counterfeiting details such as symbols, crests, special patterns, or numbers. These are all essential in security documents and official papers. Not only does gold foil have aesthetic value, but we need it for safety and brand protection.
Exceptional foiling services for any need
As one of the leaders in the foiling industry, we have excellent levels of expertise and skill. Therefore, you can be confident knowing your items are in the best possible hands. Thanks to our understanding of the foil and how to apply if effectively, nothing avoidable will go wrong.
If you find yourself needing the finest foiling services, please let us know. We can ensure you get unbeatable results.