Some helpful details about silversmiths

what is a silversmith

A silversmith is a craftsperson who works with silver to create, shape, and decorate objects. This can include everything from jewellery and cutlery to decorative items like bowls, teapots, and candlesticks.

What silversmiths do

Silversmiths use a mix of traditional hand tools and modern equipment to:

Melt and shape silver into desired forms
Hammer, bend, and solder pieces together
Engrave or emboss decorative patterns
Polish finished items to a high shine

Types of silversmithing

Jewellery making – rings, necklaces, bracelets
Hollowware – larger items like teapots, bowls, and cups
Flatware – forks, knives, and spoons
Decorative art – sculptures or ornamental pieces

Historic UK silversmiths (17th–19th century)

Paul Storr – one of Britain’s greatest, worked for royalty
Hester Bateman – elegant, accessible Georgian designs
Paul de Lamerie – master of ornate Rococo silver
Omar Ramsden – hand-crafted revival style pieces
Robert Garrard – linked to royal commissions
Paul Crespin – early 18th-century excellence

Major UK silversmith companies & firms

Mappin & Webb – iconic Sheffield and London maker
Garrard & Co – royal silversmiths since 18th century
Elkington & Co – revolutionised silver production
Asprey – high-end silver and gifts
Walker & Hall – well-known Victorian firm
Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company – major 19th-century retailer

Modern & contemporary UK silversmiths

Jocelyn Burton – combines sculpture and silver
Malcolm Appleby – highly detailed engraving work
Rod Kelly – modern handcrafted vessels
Brett Payne – traditional skills and education
Clive Burr – contemporary handmade pieces

Key UK silversmithing centres

London – historic hub (Goldsmiths’ Company, assay office)
Sheffield – industrial silver production
Birmingham – jewellery quarter and mass manufacture