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Friday, 15th February 2008 (4422 views)

A planned £14 million jewellery centre in London would offer young people the chance to learn the historic craft of the goldsmith, reports say.

The Goldsmiths' Company, which has been responsible for testing the quality of gold and silver in the UK since 1300, has applied to Islington Council to develop the centre in Clerkenwell, the Islington Gazette reports.

The proposed Goldsmith Institute would occupy a five-storey building incorporating the listed Eagle Court and a new development. It would comprise teaching studios, exhibition space and conference areas.

In addition to offering young people the chance to learn the goldsmiths' craft, the institute would also offer training to those already working in the industry.

Dick Melly, the clerk of the Goldsmiths' Company said the project represented the largest project undertaken by the organisation in 100 years.

"It is an initiative which gives a clear indication of our ongoing and steadfast support for the craft and industry in this country," he said.

In addition to being the guardian of the craft, the Goldsmiths' Company is also responsible for carrying out the Trial of the Pyx, a test of the coins produced by the Royal Mint, which it has performed since 1603.

 

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