Castro Smith | Jeweller & Engraver

Castro began his training with a traditional apprenticeship with the Goldsmiths' Company, and studied with one of the largest engraving firms RH Wilkins. He started at the bottom, and it was there that he learned to keep the tools sharp, clean the workshop, polish, file and engrave. Just the way they held the tools took him three months to learn. He now makes his own tools as it’s such a small industry you either need to have them handed down to you, or make them yourself. The technique he uses, 'seal engraving' goes back to ancient times. A seal is always engraved in reverse and is much deeper than traditional two dimensional hand engraving with a third or fourth dimension added which is deeper and finer and takes much more time to achieve. Traditionally the signet ring would bear the family crest and the ring would be stamped onto hot wax to seal important documents, with the Intaglio engraving acting as a signature, and the engraved image or crest reproduced in the wax as a 3D relief. Now, he uses his knowledge of engraving to create contemporary pieces and to experiment with European and Japanese engraving techniques, producing a cross fertilisation of styles and processes. In 2017 he was awarded the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust scholarship, and he travelled to Japan to study with Japanese masters under the guidance of Hiroshi Suzuki - spending many months in the workshop of master metal worker Kenji Io as well as his son Koichi, and his son's wife Mariko Sumioka spending time with Kashima Kazuo, and National Living Treasure, Mamoru Nakagawa. In Japan he trained in Japanese metal working, engraving and patination. Originally from the North East of England, he now lives and works in East London. His studio is currently based at the Sarabande Foundation which was established by Alexander McQueen. He sells his pieces through Dover Street Market and The New Craftsmen as well as working on a bespoke commission basis.