The Goldsmiths' Company Assay Office

Founded to regulate the craft or trade of the goldsmith, the Goldsmiths' Company has been responsible since 1300 for testing the quality of gold, silver and from 1975 platinum articles. The word Hallmark originates from the fifteenth century when London craftsmen were first required to bring their artefacts to the Goldsmiths' Hall for assaying and marking. This requirement continues unchanged toda

y and the company still carries out it's statutory function through the operations of The Goldsmiths Company Assay Office. The company continues to play an important role in the support of the craft and industry,funding apprenticeships and assisting with the technical training of aspiring craftsmen. It is currently engaged in building the Goldsmiths' Centre to build workshops for craftsmen and a promotional exhibition area and the Goldsmiths' Institute as a postgraduate facility and for pre-apprentice training. It also promotes excellence in the design and craftsmanship of silverware, jewellery and art medals through advising and arranging commissions, competitions and exhibitions. A selling exhibition, Goldsmiths' Fair is held every year in the first week of October, where members of the public can purchase the work of over 80 contemporary designers and craftsmen. The company has long supported a wide range of charitable areas, and pursues a number of educational projects with schools and teachers. Please feel free to visit http://www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk/welcome-to-the-assay-office/ and leave your details to receive our regular newsletter.