| Goldsmiths (Worshipful
Company of) |
The Worshipful Company of
Goldsmiths in London received its first royal charter on 13th May 1327, although
an organised body of craftsmen in gold existed as early as the twelfth century.
As a guild, it rigorously controlled the craft, particularly confirming that gold
used in plate, jewellery and coin of the realm was up to standard. It is the oldest
hallmarking authority in the United Kingdom. All British-made articles approved
at the Assay Office at Goldsmiths’ Hall are stamped with a leopard’s head hallmark.
At the annual Trial of the Pyx, which dates from 1282, the Goldsmiths’ Company
tests samples of gold (and silver and cupro-nickel) coin of the realm. The company’s
technical advisory service provides assistance throughout the industry.
The Worshipful Company
of Goldsmiths of London
Goldsmiths’ Hall
Foster Lane
London EC2V 6BN
United Kingdom
Tel. +44 20 7606 7010
Fax +44 20 7606 1511