Mastering the Golden and Dark Smithing Quests in Skyrim

Introduction

In Skyrim, players can embark on a myriad of quests that enhance their gameplay experience, and the Golden and Dark Smithing quests are among the most sought after for those who wish to elevate their crafting skills and acquire new armors. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough designed to help you complete both quests effectively, providing you with detailed steps, tips, and crafting insights.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Part 1: The Golden Smithing Quest

1. Start the Quest

   • Begin your journey in the city of Markarth.
   • Speak to Kalas located at the Silver-Blood Inn, who will inform you about the mysterious Golden Smithing technique.

2. Visit the Blacksmith

   • Head to Dawnstar and find the blacksmith named Balimund.
   • Ask him about the Golden Smithing technique, and he will tell you about the Golden Ingots needed to begin your crafting.

3. Gather Materials

   • Collect Gold Ingots and any other materials required for crafting the golden items.
     • • Gold Ingots can be mined from gold ore with a pickaxe or purchased from merchants.
         • Merchant Tip: Check the Flagon in Riften for merchants selling ingots.
     • • Other materials include Leather Strips and various leather items, which can be crafted from animal hides.

4. Crafting the Items

   • Return to a blacksmith forge with the materials.
   • Select the Golden Smithing item to craft (like Gold Jewelry or Golden Armor).
     • • Ensure your Smithing skill level is sufficient; you can increase it by crafting simple items first.
     • • Utilize any Smithing Potions if needed to temporarily boost your skill.

5. Completing the Quest

   • Once crafted, return to Kalas at the Silver-Blood Inn.
   • Present your crafted items to receive the Golden Smithing Skill perk, unlocking advanced recipes for use.

Part 2: The Dark Smithing Quest

1. Starting the Dark Smithing Quest

   • After completing the Golden Smithing quest, visit Riften and speak to Balimund again.
   • This time, he will mention the Dark Smithing techniques known only to certain blacksmiths.

2. Information Gathering

   • Seek out Glover Mail-Walker in Raven Rock who specializes in creating dark items.
   • Engage in conversation and ask about Dark Smithing; he will provide locations of valuable resources.

3. Obtain Required Materials

   • Collect Ebony Ingots and Leather Strips to craft dark items.
     • • Ebony Ingots can be found in various mines across Skyrim or bought from specific merchants.
       • Leather Strips can be created at any forge from animal hides.

4. Craft Dark Items

   • Return to the forge at Raven Rock or any other blacksmith’s forge.
   • Choose to forge Ebony Weapons or Armor using your collected materials.
     • • Ensure you have sufficient Smithing levels; consider leveling up through creating basic items if needed.
     • • Use any enhancing potions for a temporary boost.

5. Final Steps in Dark Smithing Quest

   • Once you have crafted the required dark items, return to Glover Mail-Walker.
   • Show him your creations, and you will receive the Dark Smithing Skill perk in return.

Conclusion

Completing the Golden and Dark Smithing quests in Skyrim allows for enhanced crafting capabilities and access to powerful weapons and armor. This guide has walked you through the essential steps to ensure you acquire these valuable skills, making your character formidable in battle. Happy crafting, and may your adventures in Skyrim be ever fruitful!