Where do elves get metal?

[Inziladun]

Originally Posted by skip spence

Wasn't it also implied or stated that Maeglin's and his father Eöl's keen interest in mining and smithcraft was rather looked down on by the other nobles? That it was below their station to go under ground and dig for ore and that they became bent by their labour? It does seem a rather un-Elvish thing to do.

Then again, didn't Morgoth value his Noldorin slaves for their skills in mining and smithwork?