With their skills in high-demand, it’s not surprising that master goldsmiths were protective of their craft. For the first four years of his study, Nelson was largely self-taught, learning what he could when he was free of his duties maintaining the workshop. But during those years, Nelson observed his master with a patient, keen eye, picking up skills along the way. Impressed with his work ethic and natural ability, the master accepted 15-year-old Nelson as his first and last disciple.

Young Nelson's tutelage took place well before casting was popularized. Under his master, he learned classical jewelry-making fundamentals, working entirely by hand using conventional tools and techniques. ...