RAPAPORT... LDC, a jewelry manufacturer based in East Providence, RhodeIsland, has acquired precious-metals caster First Casting Company. First Casting was founded by Jerry Traficante and his wife,Susan, in 1980, with the couple continuing to run the company, according to itswebsite. Operating out of Johnston, Rhode Island, it offers casting in preciousand non-precious metals. The business will function as usual following thetakeover, LDC said. "We are excited to have new resources and capabilities tooffer and continue driving value for all of our customers," Ed DeCristofaro,CEO of LDC, said in a statement Tuesday. Image: A jewelry manufacturer at work. (Shutterstock)