The appearance of Roman gold when it comes from the kiln is Matt or
dull. In order to bring out its natural brilliancy, scouring or
burnishing is necessary. This can be done with a spun glass brush made
for this purpose, or it can be burnished with a special sand. In case
an article has to be refired, be sure to remove all of the glass fibres
as they would ruin the decorations. The beauty of the unburnished gold
will be destroyed by moisture from the fingers. If sand is used,
moisten a soft cloth with water, and after dipping it in sand, rub the
gold gently. After the gold is polished, the china can be washed. The
china is underfired if the gold comes off in burnishing. The gold can
be burnished more easily and more evenly if a coat of liquid gold is
used in the first firing and Roman gold on the second.
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