I stumbled across this just when I was trying to make a decent looking gold texture. I'd usually just use one from google images but none suited the colour and pattern I was looking for. I decided I'd share this tutorial with you guys too.

Highly Recommended! GIMP Photoshop effects plugin
http://registry.gimp.org/node/97

Gold/Brass Textures
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=CXJR9S1D