A Day in the Life of a Goldsmith: Behind the Scenes Insights
Behind the scenes in my goldsmith studio. My workshop sits tucked away in a modest setting—just 25 square metres of focused creativity and purposeful work. Though small, every corner serves the needs of my craft. I’ve set aside one area for receiving clients, where we sit together to discuss their jewellery ideas, stories, and wishes. I guide them through the possibilities for bringing their vision to life, offering insight into materials, design choices, and technical options.
Each morning, I turn the key in the lock and step into my workshop. This quiet moment signals the start of a new day—another opportunity to create something meaningful. My tools aren’t delicate; they’re precise and specialised for the goldsmithing techniques I’ve honed over the years. I keep everything arranged practically, each tool carrying the marks of experience.
Morning: Groundwork and Planning
Working exclusively on bespoke jewellery orders, I begin each day by reviewing what lies ahead. I check which Fairmined metals I need to order and which responsibly sourced gemstones I must track down. I also confirm my client appointments for the day. Since earning Fairmined certification in 2018, I’ve made it a point to ensure every gram of gold I use supports ethical mining, respects the environment, and uplifts communities.
I rarely sketch. Instead, clients often send images they’ve found online or reference pieces from my website. They might want a similar design in a different metal or with a different gemstone colour. These conversations ignite the creative process, and I translate their preferences into personal, made-to-measure jewellery.
Midday: Craftsmanship and Creation
By midday, I fully immerse myself in making. I cut, shape, solder, melt, and alloy metals. I especially love turning solid metal into liquid and back again—particularly when I remodel a client’s old gold. Breathing new life into heirloom jewellery gives me deep satisfaction.
I used to set all my own stones. Stone-setting was the icing on the cake—the final act that completed a piece. But the work grew physically demanding, and I eventually handed over this task to a trusted professional setter. Each week, I either collect or pick up the jewellery they’ve finished with gemstones.
The same applies to engraving. I still favour hand-engraving for its warmth and individuality, even though many now opt for laser engraving due to its speed and cost-effectiveness. I always offer the option. Hand-engravers charge per letter, which doesn’t always fit every budget, but when possible, the results speak volumes.
While I work, I often listen to audiobooks—Miss Marple or James Herriot stories from my childhood. Their familiar voices keep me company and offer gentle rhythm to my day.
Afternoon: Meeting Clients, Sharing Visions
From Wednesday through Saturday, I welcome clients into the workshop. Most appointments fall around 10 am or later in the evening. Each meeting becomes a dialogue—clients share their images, inspirations, or ideas, and I show them gemstone options and guide them through the design journey.
These one-to-one moments add real depth to my work. Jewellery isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about emotion, connection, and significance. My role as a goldsmith goes beyond the bench—I listen, interpret, and create meaningful pieces that reflect individual stories.
Evening: Closing the Day
As the day ends, I focus on polishing and photographing completed pieces—these mark the finishing touches. Then I turn off all my equipment: the pickle pot, the torch, the weighing scales—nothing stays on standby. I take energy efficiency and the longevity of my tools seriously.
I always tidy my bench, note where I left off, and jot down any fresh ideas. This evening ritual allows me to stay organised and approach each new day with clarity and purpose.
The Heart of a Goldsmith
Being a goldsmith isn’t glamorous—it’s gritty, precise, and profoundly fulfilling. I work with fire, metal, time-honoured tools, and enduring values. I create pieces infused with memory, love, and symbolism.
From the first idea to the final polish, I stay engaged in every step. The journey shapes me as much as I shape the jewellery. Though tools and techniques evolve, I stay true to the soul of my craftsmanship.
This work connects me to history, materials, and most importantly, to people. Every day in my life as a goldsmith blends tradition with innovation and vision with reality. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
If you’d like to create a bespoke piece together, I’d be delighted to welcome you into the workshop. Feel free to book an appointment—whether it’s to talk through an idea, look at gemstones, or simply begin the journey of crafting something truly personal.
