French Silversmiths

 French silver is often characterised by high quality and skilled workmanship, both ensured by particularly strict guild rules.

The French hallmarking system is complex and dates back to the 13th century, with the appearance of the first “Maisons Communes” marks. In the 17th and 18th century a silversmith had to serve 8-years of apprenticeship and three years as a journeyman before being able to submit a trial work to the guild, hoping to obtain the status of “master”.