Engraved Jewelry Guide

What Is Engraving?

Engraving is the process of etching a design into the surface of the metal. The surface of a metal can be marked in several ways; however, engraving involves physically altering the surface. The engraving of metal is a permanent process that can have highly detailed results depending on how it is carried out.

It is possible to engrave using a computer program that matches exact designs. Rotary engraving leaves an engraved image or text by damaging the surface with a small bit. On the other hand, the variable diameter of the laser used for laser engraving can allow for more precise cutting of metal. Different engraving types exist for metals, stones, gemstones, glass, and plastic.

Types Of Engraving

The type of engraving you need depends on the material or design you are looking for. The following are some types of jewelry engravings.

1. Etching Engraving

Etching is the only personalization method that is unique. Laser engraving and rotary engraving are both physical processes. On the other hand, chemical treatment is used to create designs through etching.

Crevices and lines are produced by etching through selective corrosion. It is possible to protect some areas from corrosive forces, which allows them to maintain their shape. The most common solvent is acid, so certain areas are painted acid-proof.

Jewelry pieces are immersed in acid baths to begin corrosion. It is similar to painting with negative space. Protected parts remain elevated, while corroded parts become deeper.

2. Rotary Engraving

The idea of rotary engraving is similar to traditional engraving. Rotary engraving uses a rotating cutting tool. Motorized spindles are used for cutting tools to make grooves in materials.

We can see lines and bumps created by the cutting tip on the surface. In rotary engraving, designs are created by applying physical force. Brittle materials such as glass might not be ideal for this method.

Spindle bits also tend to melt the plastic as they heat up. It’s great for watches, brass, steel, and aluminium.

3. Laser Engraving

Engraving with lasers is the latest technology. Light beams are amplified until they’re powerful enough to cut, mark, or burn.

Laser light emits enormous amounts of heat when it hits a material. As a result of this heat, the material disintegrates in seconds, leaving cavities behind.

These cavities are controlled by software. These cavities appear cohesive to the naked eye.

Laser engraving can be used on a wider variety of materials than rotary engraving. Light is the only thing that contacts the material so that pressure won’t damage it. Engraving of this type is ideal for:

• Metal
• Diamonds
• Gemstones
• Semi-precious stones
• Glass
• Plastic
• Beads

Heavy-duty materials can be penetrated more easily by laser than by other methods. Plastic and glass can also be handled without breaking or melting without breaking.

Laser engraving is the best method for creating jewelry with custom engraving. The use of laser engraving goes beyond engraving metals and jewelry. It can also be used on wood, acrylic, stone, and leather.