The Institute of Professional Goldsmiths Secures New Sponsorship from The London Assay Office to Support British Craftsmanship
The Institute of Professional Goldsmiths Secures New Sponsorship from The London Assay Office to Support British Craftsmanship
The Institute of Professional Goldsmiths (IPG), a self-governing, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and maintaining the highest standards of design and craftsmanship in jewellery, silversmithing and the allied trades, is proud to announce a new sponsorship agreement with the London Assay Office. This strategic partnership will provide vital support for the IPG, enabling it to continue to operate with full autonomy while expanding its reach to the next generation of master goldsmiths, silversmiths, and jewellers.
As a fully independent entity, run largely by volunteers, the IPG relies on membership contributions and industry sponsorship to support its work and further its aims. The funding provided by the London Assay Office will ensure greater financial stability, helping the IPG to further develop its training and sponsorship initiatives, while retaining its independence and remaining led by professionals from within the trade.
“The London Assay Office shares our deep commitment to excellence in craftsmanship and the preservation of heritage skills,” said Janet Weller, Chair of the IPG. “This sponsorship represents a significant investment in the future of the IPG and the wider trade. It will enable our Executive Committee to advance its long-term vision, ensuring that we continue to champion and promote the work of our Fellows as some of the industry’s most highly skilled independent designers and makers. It will also strengthen our mentorship programme, helping talented Associate Fellows develop their skills and progress towards full Fellowship.”
The sponsorship will support several strategic priorities, including:
- The Development of a Craft Skills Training Programme: Financially supporting the development of technical training, mentoring and skills development opportunities either independently, or through existing educational establishments such as The Goldsmiths Centre, aligning with the goals and ethos of The Goldsmiths Company and The Goldsmiths Craft and Design Council, (GC&DC).
- Preservation of Traditional Techniques: Supporting initiatives that promote traditional and contemporary manufacturing and design techniques. Keeping handmade skills at the forefront whilst embracing the use of modern technologies, such as CAD and laser welding.
- Enhanced Trade and Public Visibility: A new social media campaign to raise the profile of the IPG and increase awareness of its role as the benchmark for master craft skills within the industry. The initiative will help reduce barriers to entry for the next generation of tradespeople while highlighting the exacting standards required to achieve full IPG Fellowship.
The London Assay Office, which has tested and hallmarked precious metals for centuries, chose to support the organisation because of its strong track record, independent structure and positive contribution to the high-end jewellery and silversmithing trades.
“We are incredibly proud to stand behind The Institute of Professional Goldsmiths,” said Will Evans, Director of the London Assay Office. “As a self-governing non-profit, the IPG has shown remarkable dedication in addressing the real, practical needs of master craftspeople. We look forward to supporting their vision and helping safeguard the integrity of British craft.”
To learn how to get involved as a sponsor or to apply for membership of the IPG, please visit www.ipgoldsmiths.com/ or contact the media representative listed below.
The Institute of Professional Goldsmiths
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