What is gold and silver cardstock?

Gold and silver cardstock (metallic cardstock) is premium paperboard with a metallic finish applied through PET or OPP film lamination, aluminum foil bonding, or metallic coating. Available in GSM from 200 to 400, it is used for luxury packaging, cosmetics boxes, premium business cards, and high-end printing applications.

What GSM is commonly used for metallic cardstock?

Standard GSM range is 200 to 400 g/m2. 200-250 GSM for flexible packaging and labels. 250-300 GSM for business cards, greeting cards, and gift boxes. 300-400 GSM for rigid packaging, cosmetic boxes, and premium applications. Custom GSM is also available upon request.

What is holographic cardstock?

Holographic cardstock features an iridescent rainbow pattern created through an embossed metallized film. Unlike standard metallic cardstock which shows a single color (gold/silver), holographic cardstock displays shifting rainbow colors depending on the viewing angle. It is popular for collectible cards, premium packaging, and novelty printing.

What certifications do metallic cardstock products have?

Our metallic cardstock products are certified with ROHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and REACH (EU chemicals regulation). For food contact applications, FDA compliance testing is available. FSC certification is also available upon request for sustainable sourcing.

Gold & Silver Cardstock (Metallic Cardstock) Technical Specifications & Grade Guide

Q: What is the difference between PET and OPP laminated cardstock?

PET (polyethylene terephthalate) laminated cardstock offers higher gloss, better scratch resistance, and a more premium feel. OPP (oriented polypropylene) laminated cardstock provides good gloss at a lower cost, with slightly lower durability. Both are available in gold, silver, and custom colors.

📋 TL;DR — Key Takeaways

This article covers: card paper and game card materials

Complete technical specifications for gold and silver cardstock (metallic cardstock). PET laminated, OPP laminated, aluminum foil card, and holographic grades. GSM 200-400, gloss/matte finish, single/double sided. With ISO/GB test methods and applications guide.

Best for: card manufacturers, printing companies, and game publishers

By George Hu — July 4, 2026 — Salon Paper

Quick Reference: Gold and silver cardstock (metallic cardstock) is available in PET laminated, OPP laminated, aluminum foil card, and holographic finishes. GSM range 200–400 g/m², available in gloss and matte finish, single-sided (C1S) and double-sided (C2S) coating. Primary applications include luxury packaging, cosmetics boxes, premium business cards, greeting cards, gift boxes, and wine labels. All products certified ROHS/REACH compliant.

Metallic Cardstock Product Types

Product Type Coating Process GSM Range Gloss Level Key Features Common Applications PET Laminated Gold/SilverPET film lamination200–400High glossSuperior scratch resistance, high gloss, durablePremium packaging, luxury boxes, cosmetics OPP Laminated Gold/SilverOPP film lamination200–400Medium glossGood gloss, cost-effective, flexibleGift boxes, shopping bags, labels Aluminum Foil CardAluminum foil bonding250–400Matte to semi-glossPremium metallic effect, rigid feelWine packaging, premium business cards Holographic CardstockEmbossed metallized film200–350Iridescent/rainbowShifting rainbow pattern, decorativeCollectible cards, invitations, decoration High-Gloss Coated GoldDirect metallic coating200–350High glossSmooth finish, excellent printabilityRetail packaging, presentation folders Matte Finish Gold/SilverMetallic coating + matte topcoat200–350Low (matte)Elegant understated effect, anti-fingerprint

Corporate stationery, luxury invitations

Available Colors & Finishes

Color Available Finishes Typical GSM Coating Side GoldGloss, Matte, Holographic200–400C1S, C2S SilverGloss, Matte, Holographic200–400C1S, C2S Rose GoldGloss, Matte200–350C1S, C2S Copper / BronzeGloss, Matte200–350C1S Rainbow HolographicIridescent200–350C1S Custom ColorsPer client specPer client spec

C1S / C2S

Grade Selection Guide

200–250 GSM — Flexible & Lightweight

Best for: Shopping bags, gift wrap, light packaging, labels, promotional materials.

Features: Flexible yet durable. Suitable for die-cutting and creasing. Good foldability for bag-making. Thickness approx. 0.25–0.32mm.

250–300 GSM — Standard Premium

Best for: Premium business cards, greeting cards, invitation cards, gift boxes, small packaging, book covers.

Features: Balanced rigidity and flexibility. Excellent for offset and digital printing. Suitable for scoring, folding, and embossing. Thickness approx. 0.32–0.38mm.

300–400 GSM — Rigid & Heavy-Duty

Best for: Cosmetic packaging boxes, rigid gift boxes, wine bottle carriers, premium rigid folders, luxury product packaging.

Features: High structural rigidity. Superior feel and weight. Excellent for foil stamping and debossing. Suitable for auto-lock bottom boxes. Thickness approx. 0.38–0.50mm.

Common Formats & Dimensions

Format Sheet Size GSM Range Standard Sheet787 × 1092 mm200–400 Large Sheet889 × 1194 mm200–400 Custom Slit RollCustom width200–400 Custom Cut-to-SizePer client spec

200–400

Certification & Compliance

ROHS compliant — Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive
REACH compliant — EU regulation on chemicals and their safe use
FSC certified — Available upon request for sustainable paper sourcing
FDA compliance — Available upon request for food-contact packaging applications

Need a Detailed Specification Sheet?

We provide full technical data sheets for all metallic cardstock grades including color samples, physical property test reports, and mill certificates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PET and OPP laminated cardstock?

PET lamination uses polyethylene terephthalate film, offering higher gloss, better scratch resistance, and a premium feel. OPP lamination uses oriented polypropylene film, which is more economical while still providing good gloss. PET is recommended for high-end packaging, while OPP offers a cost-effective alternative for medium-range applications.

Can metallic cardstock be printed on?

Yes. Metallic cardstock can be printed using offset, digital, flexo, and screen printing. UV printing is highly recommended for best adhesion and color vibrancy on metallic surfaces. Most metallic cardstock grades are available with a printable top coating for improved ink receptivity.

What is C1S and C2S?

C1S (Coated One Side) means the metallic finish is applied to one side only, leaving the reverse side as an uncoated white or kraft backing. C2S (Coated Two Sides) has metallic finish on both sides. C1S is more common and cost-effective. C2S is used when both sides need to show a metallic appearance.

What is the MOQ for metallic cardstock?

Standard MOQ is 2–5 tons per grade and color. For custom colors and special finishes, MOQ is typically 5–10 tons. Smaller quantities are available for sample evaluation.

Is holographic cardstock the same as metallic cardstock?

Not exactly. Standard metallic cardstock shows a single solid metallic color (such as gold or silver). Holographic cardstock features an iridescent rainbow pattern created through an embossed metallized film that diffracts light into multiple colors. Both are available in our product range and share similar physical specifications.

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