What is Silversmithing?

Hello!

Welcome to my first blog post!

I wanted to explain a bit about what silversmithing is and what it means.

You may have heard of the terms; Goldsmith, Metalsmith, Blacksmith, Locksmith, Gunsmith, Bladesmith to name a few!

The term 'Smith' or 'Smithing' means to 'hit' or 'strike' and refers to the craft of working with metal to create tools, weapons, jewellery and decorative objects.

For example; a Goldsmith works with Gold, a Metalsmith works with all kinds of metal (I could also be classed as this as I work with copper), a blacksmith works with iron (also known as a farrier these days for those that only shoe horses), Locksmith = Locks, Gunsmith = Guns and a Bladesmith = Blades! 

So a Silversmith works with Silver! This is not necessary just jewellery, but anything that is crafted out of silver such as vessels, bowls, candlesticks, sculptures and decorative objects.

These processes go back hundreds of years, and has played a crucial role in human civilization. Smithing has evolved from a vital survival skill into a refined art form.

But whilst these days, the industrialization reduced the demand for traditional smiths, the craft has persisted in making, artisan metal work, jewellery making and restoration.

It is a long and prestigious tradition and so important to keep the learning alive to pass onto future generations!