Pure gold are used in Japanese restorations of ceramics. The technique is called Kintsugi. Firstly the broken section (if you still have it) is 'glued' back into place with Mugi urushi (a mixture of wheat flour, water and raw lacquer. Once dry the
excess is cut back so as to be flush with the ceramic surface. A coat of kuro urushi (black lacquer) is painted over the repaired crack outline with a fine brush and again dried. Lastly Shu urushi (red lacquer) is applied over the repaired area followed by a sprinkling of fine gold powder. The gold is purely decorative and does not in any way aid to the repair strength. This technique is unique in that the item is still useable after restoration i.e hot water will not damage the repair.
(Authority: Robert A Soanes)
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