Latest News & Press

The Analytical Services division of the Sheffield Assay Office (AS) has expanded its capacity for melting by acquiring a custom-built induction furnace. In the last few months, AS has seen a continued increase in demand for melting precious and non-precious metal alloys and our new equipment now enables us to deliver a very high…

A silver toast to Sheffield Silversmiths with a gin chalice, water jug and cup. Sheffield Assay Office is delighted to announce that the Precious Little Gems Commissions sponsored by the office are now on display in the foyer of Museums Sheffield, Millennium Gallery. These stunning pieces have been designed and made by Yorkshir…

Thank you to David Brough of Jewellery Outlook who featured the following article about the excellent service we provide here at Sheffield Assay Office, in their publication this month. Click here to read the article in full.   Click here to read the full article. For further information about all of our services, or to arran…

In the Analytical Services laboratory here at Sheffield Assay Office, we have great experience working with ferroalloys. But what exactly are they and what are they used for? Ferroalloys - an overview Ferroalloys is a term used to identify various alloys of iron with a high proportion of one or more other elements; e.g. Cr,…

Following his recent appointment as Hallmarking Production Manager, Danny Smith has been concentrating on building an excellent team around him to help drive the department forward and establish a solid foundation for future growth. The four key members of staff consist of Aaron Walker, Angela Shelley, Amy Guest and Jordan C…

Cameron Maxfield (Max) is a master of his craft with a vast knowledge of traditional skills and a meticulous attention for detail. His work reflects his keen eye for contemporary design and employment of alternative methods and materials. He has a personal passion for the teapot, returning to and experimenting with the form over…

Organisers have chosen the magnificent Cutlers’ Hall in Sheffield as the back- drop for a new precious metals selling fair, the first of its kind in the region. Goldsmiths North will build on the success of The Goldsmiths’ Fair in London and the Elements Festival of Jewellery, Silver & Gold in Edinburgh when it takes…

Since 2007, hallmarking legislation has allowed mixed metal items subject to the following conditions: A mixed precious metal and base metal article, or an article of mixed precious metal and other materials, can only be hallmarked if any precious metal component is at least the minimum legal fineness for that metal i.e. …