Golden Universal Tarot

Golden Universal Tarot - Rider-Waite with gold foil on every card

Gold foil on tarot cards is not new, but here it sits on every detail. Borders, attributes, sometimes an entire motif. It reflects light and draws the eye to what carries symbolic weight.

Roberto De Angelis redrew all 78 cards of the Rider-Waite system. His style is more realistic than the original work by Pamela Colman Smith. The figures move, the faces are more expressive, the backgrounds quieter. That last part lets the gold speak without visual clutter.

What you see on the cards

The symbolism remains classic Rider-Waite. Cups, swords, wands and pentacles follow the familiar structure. The major arcana run from The Fool to The World. What differs is the execution.

The gold foil is not everywhere. It highlights specific elements like crowns, coins, sun rays, stars and weapons. That keeps the cards readable and luxurious at the same time. The colours are clear but not harsh. Plenty of blue, green and warm skin tones.

The cardstock is sturdy and smooth. The cards measure 66 by 120 millimetres, a comfortable size for daily use. They shuffle easily.

Who this deck works for

This is a beginner deck. The Rider-Waite structure means almost any tarot book works as a reference. The images are direct and the guidebook explains the basic meanings in five languages.

At the same time the deck also suits collectors. The gold foil and careful production lift it above a standard deck. The box is solid enough to last for years.

Lay the cards by candlelight. The gold catches the light differently than in daylight and gives the reading a different atmosphere.

About Roberto De Angelis

Roberto De Angelis is an Italian artist who modernises classic tarot cards. His strength lies in translating symbolism into contemporary imagery without losing the essence. He has worked on other reissues of historical decks and is known for clear lines and human expression in the figures.

Specifications

• Number of cards: 78 (22 major arcana, 56 minor arcana)
• Card size: 66 x 120 mm
• Guidebook language: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian
• ISBN: 9780738745251
• Publisher: Lo Scarabeo
• Cardstock quality: sturdy, high-grade
• Finish: gold foil accents
• Packaging: solid storage box
• Artist: Roberto De Angelis
• System: Rider-Waite

Questions we often get

Does the gold foil appear on all cards?
Yes, every card has gold foil details. It is not a fully gilded surface, but targeted accents on symbols and motifs that matter in the Rider-Waite system.

Does the gold foil wear off with regular use?
With normal use the foil stays intact. The cardstock is sturdy and the finish is professionally applied. With very intensive shuffling or rough handling the shine may diminish slightly after years.