Business Details
27 Years
experience
Custom Jewelry & Metal Art by Creative Metalworks
Creative Metalworks has been a leader in precious metal design and fabrication since 1999, combining artistic vision with technical expertise. Our full-service foundry, molding facility, and jewelry studio create custom commissions for museums, corporations, and private clients worldwide. With decades of collective experience, our team specializes in intricate metalwork, restoration of historical artifacts, and educational programs that have trained hundreds of artisans. We maintain rigorous quality standards through hands-on craftsmanship and advanced techniques like lost-wax casting and electroforming.Our reputation for excellence is evidenced by prestigious clients including the National Cathedral, Smithsonian institutions, and international dignitaries. As both creators and educators, we advance metal arts through our School of Design while providing transparent, client-focused service. Every project reflects our commitment to preserving traditional techniques while innovating for contemporary applications.
Services
Custom Jewelry
Religious Commissions
Medal Production
Architectural Models
Restoration Services
Metalworking Classes
Casting Services
Tool Supply
Ceremonial Objects
Hollowware Fabrication
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of experience in precious metal fabrication and conservation
- Our team holds advanced degrees in jewelry design and metal arts education
- We maintain a full-service foundry for complete production control
- Clients include The White House, Smithsonian, and National Cathedral
- We combine traditional techniques with cutting-edge casting technologies
What people say
Museum-quality restoration
Exquisite custom jewelry
National reputation
Prestigious clients
Advanced techniques
Services
Custom Jewelry
We create one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces using precious metals and gemstones. Our artisans employ traditional techniques like lost-wax casting and hand engraving to produce wearable art tailored to client specifications. Each piece combines technical precision with artistic expression, from engagement rings to commissioned heirlooms.
Religious Commissions
Our studio fabricates liturgical objects and ceremonial items for religious institutions. We produce crosses, chalices, and medallions using sterling silver and gold, incorporating both traditional motifs and contemporary designs. Clients include major Christian denominations and interfaith organizations requiring sacred objects.
Restoration Services
We specialize in preserving historical metal objects for museums and private collectors. Our conservators use non-invasive techniques to repair antique silverware, ceremonial items, and architectural elements while maintaining original integrity. This includes electroplating, soldering, and surface finishing to restore functionality and appearance.
Architectural Models
We craft detailed scale models of buildings and structures from precious metals. These include presentation pieces for developers and commemorative items for institutions. Using forging and casting methods, we replicate architectural details in sterling silver and gold for both decorative and functional purposes.
Metalworking Classes
Our School of Design offers hands-on training in metal arts techniques. Courses cover basic fabrication to advanced stone setting, with instruction in casting, enameling, and hand engraving. Students gain practical experience using professional tools while developing their creative projects under expert guidance.
People
Michael R. Schwartz
Owner & Lead Metalsmith
Master jeweler with 35 years experience, holding BS in jewelry fabrication and MEd in education. Recipient of multiple design awards, his work appears in national exhibitions and private collections. Founded Creative Metalworks School of Design in 2006.
Questions
What types of custom metalwork do you create?
We specialize in jewelry, ceremonial objects, architectural models, and religious commissions using precious metals. Our portfolio includes awards for dignitaries, museum artifacts, and private collections.
Are your metalworking classes currently available?
Our educational programs are temporarily suspended during relocation, but we maintain a mailing list to notify interested students when courses resume at our new facility.
How do you handle restoration of antique metal objects?
Our conservators use museum-approved techniques to repair historical items while preserving original materials. This includes careful cleaning, structural reinforcement, and surface restoration using compatible metals and finishes.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Kensington, MD, we serve clients nationwide with custom fabrication, restoration services, and art supply sales through our online store and virtual consultations.
Can you create corporate awards or ceremonial objects?
Yes, we design and produce custom trophies, medals, and presentation pieces for corporations, government agencies, and cultural institutions. Our clients include the White House and Smithsonian museums.
Do you sell metalworking tools and supplies?
Our Kensington showroom offers quality tools and equipment for professional jewelers and hobbyists. We carry both new and refurbished machinery, along with consumable materials for metal arts studios.
Reviews (2)
Kyle Parrish
Feb 03, 2016
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I've had 3 pieces made here and they've all been great. Mr. Schwartz takes the time to explain how he'll make your piece and really makes sure he gets the details right. Even though he makes unique one of a kind jewelry, his prices are still lower than the big name stores. Absolutely phenomenal service, workmanship, and cost. I highly recommend Creative Metalworks to anyone looking for an engagement ring.
Jorge M.
Mar 26, 2014
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I had a good experience and enjoyed the consultation with Mike. I can't understand where the anonymous is coming from, no review or anything but a rating. Pathetic. With that said, I went to see him about a consultation for a custom job, it was a walk in and he was so nice and took his time with me. He was strait forward and with the project's complexity he was honest with the price and looked out for my own good and wanted me to know this would be something extravagant.
He does GREAT work, he even has two fully working carousels he made which looks like they human size ones shrunk down. Intricate detail masterfully done, you get what you pay for and he is worth every cent.
He does GREAT work, he even has two fully working carousels he made which looks like they human size ones shrunk down. Intricate detail masterfully done, you get what you pay for and he is worth every cent.
