Hematite

• Hematite is a high-grade iron ore. It is a dark red color that actually looks black and some people refer to it as bloodstone. It has the ability to stay dry even in areas with heavy moisture. The tool slides over the gold, leaving the gold highly polished. Additionally, hematite tools break up static so the gold does not stick to the tool.
  
  

Agate

• Agate is a semiprecious stone. Another name for agate is quartz. You can choose this type of burnisher tool to provide a high-quality polish to gold or a metal leaf. However, unlike the hematite tool, an agate tool absorbs moisture and gets damp often. Agates in the shapes of a pencil or tooth work well for most gilding projects. You can probably start your project with one of these types of agate burnisher tools.
  
  

Psilomelanite

• Some people opt for a psilomelanite burnisher tool because it does not have many flaws. It appears black but, unlike the hematite tool, you must keep the psilomelanite tool thoroughly clean from grease. You should not even touch it with your finger since your fingers have natural oils on the skin.
  
  

Care for Burnishers

• You need to handle the tools with care since they chip easily. In order for the tool to work properly, you need to keep the burnishers smooth and in good condition. Simply rub the tool on the soft fabric side of a piece of leather covered with whiting. Otherwise, you can rub the tool in a zinc-lined board covered with a generous quantity of flour or emery combined with machine oil.
  
  

Directions

• Burnish gold or metal leafs with slow strokes with medium pressure . Work in areas about an inch wide. As you get accustomed to using a burnisher tool, you will find the right amount of pressure to apply. If you apply too much pressure to the gold or metal leaf, you may rub off the leaf. However, applying a too light pressure may not give you the finish you want.