Sometimes you want to go above and beyond and give an extra meaningful gift, whether for a Mother’s or Father’s Day present, a graduation gift or an expression of love.
That extra little bit of thought can make a world of difference to the receiver and make for a truly extraordinary gift.
In this blog, we’ll be looking at how engraving works and why it might just be ideal to make your next gift that extra bit more special.
The History of Engraving
Engraving is where words or images are etched onto the surface of something, this can be for identification, personalisation or to mark a historic event.
It is a skill that has existed for hundreds of years when in ancient times flint tools were used to make simple lines on hard flat surfaces.
The first known engraving was a chiselled shell found in Java, Indonesia, dating between 540,000 to 430,000 years ago. Later, bone and ivory were used for more intricate carvings during the European Stone Age.
In the European Middle Ages goldsmiths used engraving to decorate and inscribe metalwork. This is where copper plates for printing came from and ultimately how artistic images on paper, known as old masters, originated.
In the 16th century, engraving evolved with a simple tool: the burin, a hardened steel spire with a handle used to carve intricate designs into metal and wood. The burin is still used for hand engraving today.
Fast forward to the 1800s and early 1900s, personalised engraving became incredibly popular, adding a unique touch to everything from trophies to family shields.
People would often engrave sentimental items to give to loved ones when going to war or moving away too.
Today the sentiment remains, but mostly under happier circumstances!
How is Jewellery Engraving Performed?
Engraving is different to lasering as lasering is an image produced on top of the product whereas engraving is etched into the piece.
Engraving is a more traditional means of personalisation and with hand engraving, the practitioner needs years of experience to hone their skills with a result that is both unique and artistic.
Why Personalise Jewellery?
There are several reasons why people like to personalise items for bespoke gifts: maybe a gift for him to remember a special date, a gift for her with a meaningful quote or simply to add people's names to as a keepsake.
Whatever the reason it undeniably adds an extra quality to the gift.
Sentimental Value
Engraving a piece of jewellery with a name, a date, a saying or a quote can have strong sentimental value. Reminding the wearer of a time, place or special memory. This emotional connection can make the item irreplaceable.
A great example of this is the stunning engravable birthstone pendants we offer at Maudes Jewellers.
With these necklaces you have the option for double personalisation with the choice of the recipient's birthstone in addition to the option of engraving the front, back or both sides of the engravable disk, making a truly thoughtful and sentimental gift.
Identification
Engraving a piece of jewellery can make it easier to identify. If the wearer frequently removes the jewellery for example for work or sport, having an identifying mark can make it easy to locate.
In the unfortunate event of theft, personalisation can make it harder to sell the piece on and in some cases may prevent the theft in the first place.
For the man in your life, a personalised leather bracelet could be the well-deserved treat you are looking for. Subtle yet meaningful this wearable item of jewellery will be treasured for years to come.
To Be Different
In a world of mass production and conformity sometimes it’s nice to have something different and to stand out from the crowd.
A woman’s necklace with a date engraved, a man's ring with a love message or a bracelet to mark a significant event, all make the piece stand out from the crowd and show individuality for the wearer.
As a symbol of unity and strength the trinity pendant is crafted in recycled sterling silver with an oxidised finish, it’s a perfect gift for your closest companions. Add another layer of sentimentality to your pendant with our free engraving service.
Personalise your pendant with a name, date or coordinates to create a meaningful accessory that illustrates your unique journey.
What to Consider When Choosing Personalised Engraving?
Wording
It’s important to consider the context when deciding on what to say, what is the occasion? Is it for an individual or will a group be receiving the same gift? Is it a celebration or a memorial? What is your relationship with the recipient?
It is also important to think about the character of the wearer, are they serious, would they prefer something comical or would they prefer something intriguing like a symbol?
Once you have decided on the context consider the actual inscription, the following are all popular:
- Names
- Initials
- Dates
- Coordinates
- Symbols
- Quotes
- Messages
- Inspirations
- Secret codes
Once you have decided what you want to say, you then need to consider the size and the placement.
Space
The space you have is a crucial decision in your engraving. When choosing jewellery space is usually limited so ensuring every character counts is important.
You need to decide if you want the inscription to be readable by the naked eye or not. You also need to consider the aesthetics, a meaningful quote may be personal but will it be difficult to read?
Font
If you have a choice of different fonts be sure to consider this carefully.
A font can set the tone of the writing, an elegant font conveys a different sentiment to capital letters for example. You will also need to think about the overall look of the piece and how the font will complement this.
Maude’s Jewellers Personalised Engravings
We offer a bespoke engraving service, allowing you to add a memorable and personalised touch to your piece, making it completely unique.
With over 25 years of experience, our skilled in-house engraver, Lisa, is an expert in her craft.
Whether you choose jewellery, giftware or children’s gifts we can add a beautiful and meaningful engraving of your choice, transforming it into something extra special that will be cherished forever.
Please allow three additional 3 working days for engraving your items and if you would like information on other products we can engrave including trophies and medals for your clubs please get in touch with us here as we are happy to discuss your request.