Top British Contemporary Silversmiths

Celebrating the Craft of Contemporary Silversmiths

In an age of mass production, the appeal of finely crafted silver remains stronger than ever. Today’s international contemporary silversmiths are not only preserving centuries-old techniques but also pushing the boundaries of form, function and expression. Their work is sculptural, symbolic, and often profoundly personal breathing new life into a historic medium.

From celebrated masters to innovative emerging talents, here are some of the leading names defining contemporary silver today.

Ndidi Ekubia

Ndidi Ekubia brings an expressive, sculptural energy to contemporary silver. Her bold vessels, created through intensive hand-raising, are celebrated for their fluid, rhythmic surfaces.

Drawing inspiration from movement and urban life, her work is both visually striking and technically masterful. Ekubia is a former recipient of the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) award and was appointed MBE in 2017 for services to silversmithing. Her practice exemplifies the vitality and diversity of contemporary British silversmiths today.

Malcolm Appleby

Malcolm Appleby is a legendary figure in British silver, known for his vibrant, textural engraving and imaginative approach to design. Based in rural Perthshire, his workshop is a hub of creativity where traditional engraving meets experimental techniques. Appleby’s silver is never purely decorative; each piece tells a story—often playful, always distinctive.

His commissions have included work for 10 Downing Street and the Royal Armouries, affirming his place at the forefront of British craftsmanship.

Jocelyn Burton

Jocelyn Burton was a pioneering British silversmith and goldsmith, celebrated for her bold designs and mastery of precious metals. Often working from intricate preliminary drawings, her work is a technical masterclass in design and craftsmanship. As one of Britain’s most decorated metalworkers, her expansive style explores the full decorative and technical potential of the medium.

Graham Stewart

Graham Stewart was a key contributor to modern Scottish and British silver. His work is well represented in both public and private collections, with important pieces included within numerous British institutions such as the Aberdeen Museum and Art Gallery and The Pearson Silver Collection, which is devoted to Post-War British silver.

As visitors enter the Scottish Parliament, they are greeted with "The Three Honours," a large silver sculpture designed and made by Stewart.

Why Collect Contemporary Silver?

Contemporary silversmiths blend tradition with innovation, creating works that range from functional vessels to sculptural art pieces. Whether inspired by nature, geometry, or narrative, their creations are often made in limited editions or as one-off commissions making them both collectable and culturally significant. With an increasing number of galleries and auction houses supporting living silversmiths, now is an exciting time to explore this field.

Supporting Today’s Makers

At Lyon & Turnbull, we are proud to offer a platform for contemporary silver through our regular Silver &Objets de Vertu and MODERN MADE auctions, alongside hosting regular exhibitions arcross the UK. We are proud members of Contemporary British Silversmiths and aim to support and showcase emerging talent across the UK.

Interested in discovering more about collecting contemporary British silver?
Explore our upcoming auctions or speak to a specialist today.

Top Contemporary Silversmiths