Preparing the Next Generation of Jewellers: Sheffield Hallam Students Visit Sheffield Assay Office
Published: 6th March 2026
Students from the BA (Honours) Jewellery, Materials and Design programme – the final cohort who will complete the course in June 2026 – visited alongside students from the MA Jewellery and Metalwork programme. The visit gave students the opportunity to learn more about the important role the Assay Office plays within the jewellery industry and the legal framework surrounding precious metal hallmarking.
The group showed great enthusiasm throughout the session, asking questions and gaining a deeper understanding of the hallmarking process and how it supports both designers and consumers. For many students preparing to enter the industry and begin designing, making and selling their own work, understanding the responsibilities around precious metals and hallmarking legislation is an essential part of working professionally.
Sheffield Assay Office and Assay Master Ashley Carson have supported the Sheffield Hallam jewellery programme for over 30 years. During this time the Assay Office has provided materials, offered free Sheffield Hallam University registration and hallmarking of final-year degree work, and presented prizes at the annual degree show. In more recent years this support has also extended to students on the MA Jewellery and Metalwork programme.
Ashley Carson said:
“The students find the visit to Sheffield Assay Office of huge benefit. As they enter the world of design, making and selling their own work on a commercial footing, it is important that they understand the complexities of assaying, hallmarking and the law. Myself and the team at the Assay Office are always happy to provide that insight and support the next generation of jewellers.”
Sheffield Assay Office is proud to continue supporting jewellery education and helping emerging designers build the knowledge they need to succeed in the industry.
👉 Learn more about the programme:
MA Jewellery and Metalwork Full-time 2026 | Sheffield Hallam University
The Sheffield Assay Office was established in 1773, under an Act of Parliament and today the company assays and hallmarks the precious metals - silver, gold, platinum and palladium. Sheffield Assay Office is one of only four UK assay offices who all work to uphold the Hallmarking Act of 1973 and continue to ensure consumer protection for customers purchasing precious metals.
To find out more about the whole range of services offered by Sheffield Assay Office, such as our hallmarking and analytical services, please email us at info@assayoffice.co.uk or complete the contact form on our website at http://www.assayoffice.co.uk/contact-us ,
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