I recently read ...(twice actually, in different publication) that you can be a goldsmith even if you don't use gold. (Art Jewelry magazine, January 2010 issue, page 20) What????????????????????? That is crazy. I know a silversmith works with large silver pieces...bowls, tea sets and decorative items and so on. Since I only work with gold a bit and silver is a big part of my work... I don't really consider myself a goldsmith.
Also...when I googeled(sp?) it...an on-line dictionary ( goldsmiths.askdefine.com) defined a goldsmith as follows: A goldsmith is a metalworker who specializes in working with gold and other precious metals, usually in modern times to make jewelry. Historically goldsmiths have also made flatware, 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. The reason this is such an important question is because I am spending ample time and energy on re-vamping my business look (branding) and all. I have always put the word "metalsmith" on my cards. So now what do I put on my cards??? What do you do...what do you call yourself?
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