Silversmith

History of Silversmithing

In ancient times, silversmiths produced objects and stored them as stock due to the lower value of silver compared to gold.
Silversmith guilds formed in the ancient Near East to arbitrate disputes, protect members' welfare, and educate the public.
Medieval Europe and England saw the formation of silversmith guilds that transmitted tools and techniques through the apprentice tradition.
Artisans emigrated to America in the 17th century, leading to fewer restrictions and the growth of silverworking as a trade.
The British rule in Madras (now Chennai) during 1875 saw the emergence of exquisite silverware, including Swami Silver.

Silversmiths saw or cut specific shapes from sterling and fine silver sheet metal and bar stock.
Hammers are used to form the metal over anvils and stakes, with silver being hammered cold.
Work-hardened silver needs to be annealed periodically to prevent cracking and weakening.
Casting techniques are used to create knobs, handles, and feet for hollowware.
Assembling the various pieces is done through soldering and riveting.

Silversmiths historically used charcoal or coke fired forges and lung-powered blow-pipes for soldering and annealing.
Modern silversmiths commonly use gas burning torches as heat sources.
Laser beam welding is a newer method employed by silversmiths.
Silversmiths may also work with copper and brass, especially for practice pieces.
Copper and brass have similar working properties and are more affordable than silver.

Reference	URL
Glossary	https://harryandcojewellery.com.au/blogs/glossary/silversmith
Wikipedia	http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silversmith
Wikidata	https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2216340
Knowledge Graph	https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/m/01vs_x