Goldsmiths are the elite of jewelry artists. They have dedicated themselves to processing gold and other precious metals, never working with base metals and alloys like steel, iron, and cast iron. A goldsmith is a multi-specialized master who can cast alloys, shape them into a desired form, and fasten gemstones; he also can restore and fix jewelry pieces. Other jewelers are usually professionals in one specific field, but a goldsmith is capable of doing almost everything on his own and often produces his artwork from scratch.
Gold is a very soft and pliable metal and sometimes is compared to clay for its excellent processing properties. There is a long history of processing gold for the needs of jewelry production. People of the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome were able to extract gold, process it, and use it to produce fine jewelry ornamented with delicate, exquisite patterns.
In the Middle Ages, when labor differentiation among jewelers was common and even necessary, goldsmiths worked on the production of ceremonial dishes and other religious items. They also produced dishes and utensils for the privileged and high class. Though goldsmiths sometimes processed silver, the less-valued metals generally were outside their scope of interests and instead processed by other craftsmen. Every large European city had its own jewelers’ guild of which goldsmiths were a part. The profession was quite valued and rather prestigious during the Middle Ages. Those employed as goldsmiths were usually wealthy and well honored.
The modern art of processing gold involves working with various alloys of gold, platinum, silver, and some other precious metals. Depending on the purity of gold and the percentage of other admixtures, the golden alloy can vary in color, from already common white, yellow, and red to fancy blue, violet, and green. These alloys are used to create fine and sophisticated jewelry decorated with precious stones and engraving.