2002 Goldsmiths' Crafts Council Awards.

The Goldsmiths' company is one of the oldest livery companies, with its hall still in the city of London. The company actively supports silversmiths and jewellers in Great Britain, with this annual competition followed by an exhibition of the pieces entered. It gives a chance for apprentices, students and professionals alike to enter their pieces, in a variety of specialist sections; from fine gem set jewellery to large silverware. These are then judged against some of Great Britain's top silversmiths and jewellers. At this years competition Richardson and Ottewill entered a innovatively designed, and manufactured a silver expresso coffee set, which won the following awards:-

  • The Goldsmiths' Company award. Richardson and Ottewill
  • Designer Finished Pieces, Silver award. Justin Richardson and Steven Ottewill
  • Polishers Silversmiths, Silver award. Justin Ottewill
  • Silversmith craft section, commended. Robert Russell.

"The council were agreed that this 'team' of young silversmiths were to be congratulated and encouraged for creating a remarkable three piece expresso set in sterling silver.

The design is extraordinary, original and strong derived from a challenging concept.

The bold pod like pieces have graceful intriguing and seductive qualities especially fitting for today's interiors.

Challenging technically, the set is beautifully crafted and highly finished in silver which enhances the qualities of the forms"

Tony Laws,
Chairman, Goldsmiths' craft and design council.

Amongst the other company entries were major jewellery and silverware manufactures from Great Britain. The coffee set was up against stiff competition and came through winning the Goldsmiths' Crafts Council special award, an award rarely given. This is only given for outstanding craftsmanship in conjunction with design, this is a great honour.

The manufacture of the silver expresso set was completed by Robert Russell, who is in the last months of his five year apprenticeship at Richardson and Ottewill. The design was created by Justin Richardson and Steven Ottewill to make Robert use all of his skills he has learnt during his time with the company, and the polishing was completed by Justin Ottewill.

Over the past nine years we have won many important and highly respected national awards but none quite as prestigious as the Goldsmiths' Company Award!


Back row left to right Justin Richardson, Steven Ottewill
Front row left to right Justin Ottewill, Robert Russell