The terms hand-stamped jewellery and engraved jewellery seem to be used interchangeably. And while there are similarities there are significant differences.
So what are the similarities?
Both imprint words or designs onto a piece of metal creating a personalised piece of jewellery but the process is very different.
The differences
Hand-stamping involves putting the metal piece onto a steel stamping block. Then a metal stamp (with a raised alphabet letter or symbol at the end) is then struck with a hammer to impress a mark into the piece of metal. Usually, this is done so with a brass-headed hammer which is a softer metal than the stamp so the stamp doesn't get damaged. No metal is removed using this method, rather the metal gets impressed or shifted around. This is especially important with gold-filled metals as you don't want any of the gold to be removed. This is all done by hand and eye. The result is a beautiful imprint on the front of the piece of metal. Because the image of the stamp can be seen on the back of the metal piece we only stamp on one side of the piece.
The hammers we use have removable heads so when the old ones become too damaged from the stamps we simply pop on a new one.
This method really creates a one-of-a-kind piece. Because it's all done by hand and eye there will be slight variations between pieces. The alignment can vary slightly and depending on the hammer's force, the depth of the imprint will vary too. The downside with using metal stamps is that you are limited to the designs that each jeweller has available. This is the way to go if you are looking for a truly unique and personalised piece.
Laser Engraving involves using a computer to arrange the graphics and then a machine to carry out the process. This process is non-contact and uses a laser to act like a chisel and carve out and remove metal from the disc. While this creates a deep and permanent design it can expose the base layer of metal with can cause the metal piece to tarnish more quickly. Because it's machine-based this process is quick and efficient. There is also no limit to what can be engraved. This is a great option for items that need mass production.
In summary, both options are great depending on your needs. If you're wanting bulk items engraved and need them all to look identical then Laser engraving is the way to go. If you're after a more personal touch to your jewellery then we definitely recommend hand stamping.
At Classique Jewellery we love the fact that hand stamping is so personalised and you can be sure that your personalised piece of jewellery will be completely unique just like you and me.
Melissa x