Our Story
Founded by a Master Goldsmith of decades-long experience, Fourth Son offers discerning individuals, brands and businesses the opportunity to collaborate on a bespoke work of art. From meaningful objects to intricate jewels, each piece uniquely represents its owner, yet at the same time becomes a part of the world’s goldsmithing history.
The Philosophy
Even in the sphere of luxury, craft can be compromised as changing times mean industries choose to move production overseas. At Fourth Son, we are committed to maintaining the finest quality craftsmanship right here in the UK. Our in-house team of goldsmiths pour love and dedication into every piece, delighting our clients, supporting our craft and shaping our legacy.
While we know there are easier ways to work, we choose the right way, confident that those who appreciate such things will find their way to our door.
The Craft
Our collaborative and hands-on approach allows our clients to design their dream object and see it come to life – knowing the provenance of every material and the name of the Master who shaped them. We choose to use ethically-sourced materials, working with recycled metals and traceable stones to minimise our impact at every step. Every piece we create is bespoke and unique. Your dream won’t leave our workshop until it's as perfect as it can be.
One of the consequences of our uniquely collaborative process is that we chose not to share images of our work online. Each piece is personal and respecting our clients’ privacy is all part of our service. If you have a project you would like to discuss however, we would be happy to share some relevant examples of our work. Please contact us at info@fourthson.uk
The Process
We ensure that our client is the hero of every journey; our craftsmen are simply here to provide the skills and techniques that will allow your unique wishes to become reality. You can choose to work with us remotely, or step inside our workshop to immerse yourself in the history of goldsmithing first hand. Sitting alongside our designers, goldsmiths, horologists, enamellers, mounters and setters, you’ll smell the rich aroma of polish and pitch, feel the heat of the blow torch, and hear the whir of our antique treadle lathes. Together, we can create the piece of your dreams, capturing your story for future generations.
From engagement rings with a story to tell, to Royal Court medals, to motor racing trophies, we create heirlooms whose journey has just begun. Our process is inspired by a tireless pursuit of perfection, and characterised by collaboration, confidentiality and, above all, joy.
The Martlet
Our Martlet mark is a heraldric symbol, traditionally denoting the fourth-born son who, without the benefit of inherited wealth, would have to make his own fortune. A timeless allegory of perseverance, the mythical martlet remained on the wing from birth until death, symbolising an ongoing quest for knowledge and a deep love of learning. At Fourth Son, this legend offers us profound inspiration as we tirelessly pursue perfection.
Associated with the county of Sussex for centuries, our choice of the Martlet also reflects our connections with the local community, and firmly roots us in the county’s beautiful countryside. Those wild surroundings act as our inspiration every single day.
