The Silversmith's Handbook: Containing full instructions for the alloying and working of silver

"The Silversmith's Handbook" by George E. Gee is a comprehensive guide on silversmithing techniques written in the late 19th to early 20th century. This work serves as a practical reference for apprentices, workmen, and manufacturers who engage in silver processing and production. The handbook covers various topics, including silver characteristics, alloying, working methods, and the processes essential for creating high-quality silver goods. The opening of the treatise begins with a preface that emphasizes the need for a detailed resource to aid those in the silver trade, drawing on the author's extensive experience in silver working. It highlights the importance of understanding the physical and chemical properties of silver and describes the specific techniques used in the crafting of silver items, such as the prevention of waste during production. Furthermore, it critiques the lack of technical education among English silversmiths compared to their foreign counterparts, with a commitment to enhance their skills through knowledge. The introduction sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of silver's qualities and the intricacies of metalwork that follow throughout the handbook.