The Goldsmiths’ Centre puts the spotlight on Keum-Boo with jeweller Hendrike Barz-Meltzer
The Goldsmiths’ Centre, a stone’s throw from London’s jewellery quarter Hatton Garden, is bringing the ancient Korean technique of Keum-Boo into focus this autumn with a new Techniques in Focus online talk and follow up two-day in person masterclass led by award-winning jeweller and educator Hendrike Barz-Meltzer.
Keum-Boo is a traditional technique that uses heat and pressure to bond fine 24-carat gold foil to silver, creating rich areas of gold against the cooler tone of the metal beneath. From bold blocks of colour to fine details and layered patterns, the technique gives jewellers the freedom to explore contrast, surface and composition while using gold economically. With the price of gold continuing to rise, Keum-Boo has particular relevance to contemporary independent jewellers looking for creative and considered ways to introduce fine gold into their work.
The programme begins with Techniques in Focus: Keum-Boo with Hendrike Barz-Meltzer, an online talk taking place on 10 September 2026, 6pm – 7.15pm. Hendrike will share her personal journey with Keum-Boo, explore its history and contemporary application, and discuss the processes, tools and materials involved. She will also consider Keum-Boo alongside other gilding techniques and answer questions from participants about developing their own practice. Tickets are available on a pay-what-you-can basis at £7 or £10.
For jewellers wanting to take the technique further, the Keum-Boo Masterclass with Hendrike Barz-Meltzer will take place at the Goldsmiths’ Centre on 12 – 13 November 2026. Designed for makers with established core bench skills, the Masterclass offers 12 hours of hands-on teaching for a maximum of 10 participants, providing the time and individual support needed to build a confident, repeatable Keum-Boo process.
Image credit: Olive Branch Brooch by Hendrike Barz-Meltzer
Over the two days, participants will develop a practical understanding of the Keum-Boo process, from preparing silver and handling delicate 24ct gold foil to achieving a strong, consistent bond through heat and burnishing. Through demonstrations and hands-on experimentation, they will explore how pattern, composition, polishing, oxidisation can be used to create different surface effects, alongside micro-riveting and cold-connection techniques. Participants will leave with a series of test pieces and technical samples, as well as the knowledge and confidence to continue experimenting with Keum-Boo and incorporate the technique into their own jewellery practice. All essential specialist tools and materials are provided. Places on the Masterclass cost £499 and Access Grants, which cover the course fees, are available for individuals facing financial difficulty, funded by the Goldsmiths’ Foundation.
To find out more and book tickets, visit the Goldsmiths’ Centre’s What’s On page at www.goldsmiths-centre.org/whats-on.