Golden Universal Tarot: Tarot Deck Review

The Golden Universal Tarot deck offers a stunning enhancement of Roberto de Angelis's classic Universal Tarot — an artfully reimagined version of the traditional Rider-Waite Tarot. This luxurious edition features 78 cards with carefully selected symbols and imagery embellished with elegant gold foil detailing, creating a truly striking visual experience. (Published by Lo Scarabeo)

To be brutally honest, I was never drawn to the original RWS tarot cards. However, when I discovered this version of the Universal Tarot with its beautiful gold-decorated cards, I was instantly captivated.

The stunning visual appeal and luminous gold accents compelled me to purchase it immediately. The deck is reasonably priced considering its exceptional aesthetic quality—truly an affordable luxury for tarot enthusiasts.

I'm genuinely surprised this deck hasn't gained more visibility in tarot communities compared to decks like the Wild Unknown Tarot, which has achieved considerable popularity. Perhaps this is because many view it as "yet another RWS clone," causing some to dismiss it as less original or innovative than other contemporary decks.

While it's fair to question whether we need another RWS variant in an already saturated market, the Golden Universal Tarot justifies its existence beyond just the gold foil embellishments. The original Universal Tarot's imagery is remarkably lively and evocative—qualities I find noticeably absent in the original Rider-Waite.

The illustrations are more three-dimensional, detailed, and dynamic, making this an exceptionally readable deck for both beginners and experienced readers. Yes, one could purchase the standard Universal Tarot to enjoy these benefits, but when the gold edition is available for essentially the same price, why not indulge in that extra touch of elegance?

This deck performs beautifully in client readings. Even in low-light environments, the gold accents catch and reflect what little illumination is available, imbuing each reading with a sense of magic and ceremony. Unlike many visually elaborate decks that sacrifice functionality for aesthetics, the Golden Universal Tarot maintains excellent readability while delivering its visual splendor.

However, despite its visual appeal, one aspect disappoints: the card stock. Lo Scarabeo inexplicably used lower quality paper than their standard stock (such as that found in The Tarot of the Magical Forest deck). I suspect this limitation relates to compatibility with the gold foil application process. While understanding this technical constraint, it's worth noting that the cards feel somewhat flimsy and are prone to chipping, particularly along the edges. The card backs also exhibit signs of lower printing quality.

The gold foil itself harmonizes beautifully with the color palette, creating stunning gradients where it meets softer pastel hues. Some cards feature intentional "imperfections" in the gold foil—a design choice that divided opinions among collectors. Personally, I find these deliberate flaws complement the deck's overall character, especially as the cards naturally wear at the edges. These intentional variations give the deck a cohesive vintage aesthetic that actually enhances its charm.

Is the Golden Universal Tarot a good beginner tarot deck?

The answer is nuanced. For beginners captivated by its visual appeal, absolutely. However, those who rely on printed card titles may struggle, as this deck omits them. Without the ability to recognize cards solely by their imagery, novice readers might find the Golden Universal Tarot challenging to navigate.

This has become one of my most treasured decks, consistently delivering insightful readings. Both clients and I are drawn to its aesthetic and energy. Beyond readings, it serves beautifully as a meditation tool, effectively stimulating intuition. While some might find the golden elements distracting, those individuals most likely recognized it right away and have already moved on to other reviews. For those still reading, however, the golden accents will likely be a part of what makes this deck special.

The imaginary itself is very clear and easy to read and it has just the right amount of details for the small card size. Overall, the Golden Universal Tarot is a great "everyday deck" that reads well and is not overpowering.

Astrid "The Psychic Witch"

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