======Metalworking in the Wizarding World======
=====Introduction=====
Metalworking is a highly developed and essential craft in the wizarding world, involving the forging and enchanting of metals to create a wide range of objects, from currency and household items to powerful magical artifacts. While some wizards and witches practice metalworking, the most renowned and skilled smiths are non-human magical beings, particularly [[Goblins]], whose craftsmanship is considered unparalleled. The creation and ownership of masterfully wrought metal items, especially those made by [[Goblins]], are significant aspects of wizarding history, economy, and culture.
=====Notable Metalworkers=====
  * **[[Goblins]]**
    The most famous and proficient metalworkers are [[Goblins]]. Their skill, especially with [[silver]], is legendary. [[Goblin]]-made items are often imbued with powerful enchantments that make them exceptionally durable and capable of unique magical feats. They operate [[Gringotts Wizarding Bank]], where they mint the wizarding currency of [[Galleons]], [[Sickles]], and [[Knuts]]. [[Goblins]] hold a unique and often contentious view of ownership, believing that the true owner of an object is its maker. They consider payment for a [[Goblin]]-made item to be a form of rental, with the item expected to be returned to the [[Goblin]] community upon the purchaser's death. This cultural belief is a source of significant conflict with wizards, most notably in the dispute over the [[Sword of Gryffindor]].
  
  * **[[Dwarves]]**
    [[Dwarves]] are also mentioned as being skilled smiths, although they are referenced far less frequently than [[Goblins]]. When [[Albus Dumbledore]] was offered the post of [[Minister for Magic]], he noted that one of the attempted bribes from a Ministry official was a "dwarfishly-wrought silver helmet". This suggests that dwarfish metalwork is also of high quality and value within the wizarding world.
  
  * **Wizards and Witches**
    While not as universally acclaimed as [[Goblins]], certain powerful wizards and witches have demonstrated skill in creating intricate magical metal objects. The [[Hogwarts]] founders, for example, created their own signature artifacts.
      * **[[Salazar Slytherin]]** created the heavy [[gold]] [[Locket of Slytherin]].
      * **[[Rowena Ravenclaw]]** created the [[Diadem of Ravenclaw]].
      * **[[Albus Dumbledore]]** invented and created several magical devices, including the [[Deluminator]], which is described as looking like a silver cigarette lighter.
=====Notable Creations and Materials=====
  * **[[Goblin]]-Made Silver**
    This is not ordinary [[silver]]. According to [[Griphook]], [[Goblin]]-made silver does not require cleaning as it repels dirt. More importantly, it "imbibes only that which strengthens it". The most famous example of this is the [[Sword of Gryffindor]], forged by [[Ragnuk the First]]. After [[Harry Potter]] used it to kill the [[Basilisk]], the sword became imbued with [[basilisk]] venom, giving it the power to destroy [[Horcruxes]].
  
  * **Precious Metals**
      * **[[Gold]]:** Used for the highest denomination of currency ([[Galleons]]), valuable artifacts like the [[Locket of Slytherin]], the statues in the [[Ministry of Magic]] atrium, and the [[Golden Snitch]].
      * **[[Silver]]:** Used for currency ([[Sickles]]), magical instruments like the [[Deluminator]] and [[Secrecy Sensor]], fine tableware, and components in anti-Dark Arts devices. It is the signature material of [[Goblin]] smiths.
      * **[[Bronze]]:** Used for the lowest denomination of currency ([[Knuts]]) and for objects like the [[Eagle Knocker]] on the door to the [[Ravenclaw Tower]].
      * **[[Pewter]]:** A common, less expensive metal used for standard student [[cauldrons]].
  
  * **Magical Instruments and Objects**
    Many crucial magical devices are made of metal. This includes instruments like the [[Sneakoscope]], [[Foe-Glass]], and [[Secrecy Sensor]], as well as unique creations like the time-turner and various enchanted suits of armour found throughout [[Hogwarts]].
=====Magical Properties and Significance=====
  * **Conduits for Magic**
    Metals serve as excellent vessels for powerful and lasting enchantments. The ability of [[Goblin]] silver to absorb strengthening properties and the capacity of finely crafted objects like the [[Diadem of Ravenclaw]] and the [[Locket of Slytherin]] to be turned into [[Horcruxes]] demonstrate that metal is a prime medium for containing complex magic.
  
  * **Defensive Properties**
    Certain metals, particularly [[silver]], are known to have properties that are effective against Dark creatures. It is a common component in defensive magic and is widely understood to be harmful to [[werewolves]], a fact that instills fear in creatures like [[Fenrir Greyback]].
  
  * **Economic and Cultural Impact**
    Metalworking is the foundation of the wizarding economy through the minting of coins by the [[Goblins]] at [[Gringotts]]. Control over this craft represents significant power. Furthermore, the cultural clash between wizards and [[Goblins]] over the ownership of metalwork is a recurring theme of historical prejudice and misunderstanding, culminating in [[Griphook]]'s betrayal of [[Harry Potter]], [[Ron Weasley]], and [[Hermione Granger]] during the heist at [[Gringotts]].