Laser Engraving vs. Hand Engraving

In today's world, high streets are dominated by mass-produced, generic brands. It's no surprise the demand for personalisation has grown over the years, none more so than the jewellery industry as consumers look to make their mark. 

Among the various methods of customisation, two distinct techniques have emerged as front-runners: Laser Engraving and Hand Engraving. Each method possesses its unique charm and precision when it comes to jewellery engraving, which we'll explore below. 

What is the Difference Between Laser and Hand Engraving? 

The main distinction between these two engraving methods is hand engraving is 3D, whilst laser engraving is 2D. 

What is Laser Engraving? 

The process of laser engraving involves using computer software to adjust the intensity and speed of a high-powered laser beam. The beam is projected through a series of mirrors and refined through a focal lens to heat up and vaporise the surface of an item of jewellery to leave behind a permanent mark.

When personalising spherical objects, such as engraving on the inside of a ring, the item of jewellery is placed on a rotary attachment, which spins the ring on its axis as the laser engraves in the desired area.  

Advantages of Laser Engraving 

• Personalising your item of jewellery with laser technology allows for the engraving of intricate detailing that is almost impossible to replicate by hand whilst still achieving a clean, crisp finish. 
• Laser engraving has faster turnaround times and is more cost-effective than hand engraving.
• Contrary to hand engraving, laser technology offers a versatile method for personalising jewellery crafted from materials such as tungsten, cobalt, and steel.
• Programming a design into the jewellery engraving machine enables consistent replication, streamlining the creation of identical engravings, which is particularly advantageous when adding your logo across your jewellery brand, for example. 

Disadvantages of Laser Engraving 

• Laser engraving is a precise and automated process, resulting in a more uniform and machine-like appearance. Some individuals prefer the handcrafted, unique charm that comes with traditional hand engraving.
• Laser engraving may be less effective on irregularly shaped items of jewellery. 
• During the engraving process, the item of jewellery is placed under extreme heat to 'melt' the design into the metal. This process can cause discolouration due to the alloys in the metal. 
• With our precious planet in mind, it's worth noting laser engraving machines require a lot of energy to run. 

What is Hand Engraving?

Hand engraving is carried out by a specialist jewellery engraver using a variety of different tools, such as drills or gravers made from hardened steel, to carve into the precious metal of your item of jewellery to engrave detailed patterns, lettering, or images. 

Advantages of Hand Engraving 

• Hand engraving has been around for centuries and is the traditional method used when personalising jewellery. 
• Each hand-engraved item of jewellery is unique, bearing the marks of the skill and creativity of the engraver.
• Hand engraving creates a distinct organic finish, showcasing the subtle variations and nuances that arise from the artisan's touch. 

Disavtanges of Hand Engraving 

• Taking years to master and requiring a higher level of skill, hand engraving is more expensive in comparison to laser engraving and requires additional time to complete.
• Achieving extremely fine details or intricate patterns may be more challenging with hand engraving compared to using laser technology.
• Hand engraving is not suited for engraving jewellery with geometric designs.
• The quality of hand engraving heavily relies on the skill and experience of the engraver. 
• Hand engraving is unsuitable for personalising jewellery made from tungsten, cobalt, or steel.

What is the Best Method of Engraving?

Consider the complexity of your design when choosing between laser technology and traditional hand engraving. Laser engraving excels in producing precise and detailed geometric designs, while hand engraving is ideal for more of an illustrative or cursive outcome, offering an organic touch. Additionally, you'll want to take into consideration your budget, timeframe and the metal type of your jewellery. 

[Source from the web.]