What Is the Origin of Gold Plating?

Gold plating has maintained its popularity as an art form for ages. However, the origins of this carat craft are seldom known.

Early History

Humans first discovered the mealability of gold during the stone age. It was during these early years that people first pounded the metal into thin, decorative sheets. However, these sheets were never applied to other materials the way we perceive gold plating today.

Contributions

In 1800, Alessandro Volta discovered the science of electrodeposition, otherwise known as electroplating. This discovery made possible the fusing of two different metals--a process crucial to metal plating.

Later History

Professor Luigi Brugnatelli was the first man to gold-plate pieces of silver. He wrote a friend about this success in 1803.

Developments

In 1840, George Richards Elkington gathered together the pieces of prior research, bringing the gold-plating method into the industrial world. On March 25 of that year, he filed a patent for gold plating.

Fun Fact

Elkington reffered to himself as the "gilt toy maker." After being awarded his gold-plating patent, Elkington manufactured small gold-plated trinkets, such as snuff boxes, frames for eyeglasses and military badges.

Mass Production

In 1844, a large plant dedicated to gold plating opened in St. Petersburg, Germany. From this point on, Gold plated objects were available to the masses.