A goldsmith is a metalworker who specializes in working with gold and other precious metals. Historically goldsmiths have also made silverware, platters, goblets, decorative and serviceable utensils, and ceremonial or religious items, but the rising prices of precious metals have curtailed the making of such items to a large degree.
Goldsmiths must be skilled in forming metal through filing, soldering, sawing, forging, casting, and polishing metal. Traditionally, these skills had been passed along through apprenticeships, however, more recently Jewelry Arts Schools specializing solely in teaching goldsmithing and a multitude of skills falling under the jewelry arts umbrella are available. Many universities and junior colleges also offer goldsmithing, silversmithing and metal arts fabrication as a part of their fine arts curriculum.
Read more about Goldsmith: Gold, History, Current Situation, Notable Goldsmiths, Contemporary Goldsmiths
Famous quotes containing the word goldsmith:
“Let school-masters puzzle their brain.
With grammar, and nonsense, and learning;
Good liquor, I stoutly maintain,
Gives genius a better discerning.”
—Oliver Goldsmith (1730?–1774)
“Honour sinks where commerce long prevails.”
—Oliver Goldsmith (1728–1774)
“But soon a wonder came to light,
That showed the rogues they lied:
The man recover’d of the bite,
The dog it was that died.”
—Oliver Goldsmith (1730?–1774)