Laser engraving jewelry has become a new technological art form. Jewelry manufacturers, big or small, use these machines and their software to create one-of-a-kind, high-quality items that are sure to steal the hearts of many customers.
If you’re considering investing in a jewelry laser engraver, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Jewelry laser engraving involves using a direct, high-powered laser beam onto a material’s surface. Common materials include precious and non-precious metals. The process is controlled by an advanced software solution that allows you to set the frequency, power, speed and other aspects of the laser engraver.
You’ll begin by focusing the laser beam onto a tiny area of the material. The beam heats up and vaporizes a small area on the surface, essentially cutting and removing little parts. The result is deep yet small, precise and permanent markings. The heat from the laser beam causes careful discoloration to enhance the engraving and leave you with a refined outcome.
Engravers can etch intricate text, images and photos on the jewelry. Some lasers can even cut different designs to create unique pieces from scratch. Jewelry laser engraving is a technique that requires no further processing on the piece, making it a quick process with high-definition results.
Professionals in this industry demand high-quality accuracy to satisfy their customers’ needs. Many manufacturers in the jewelry business may move from traditional etched engraving practices to laser engraving to quickly — and precisely — create their work.
Various jewelry materials can be laser engraved, from precious and non-precious metals to non-metallic materials. Here are several examples:
From these materials, jewelry laser engravers can create intricate designs on earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings and watches. The possibilities are endless for creative jewelry designs.
To engrave different jewelry pieces, you’ll need different laser engravers. Each type has certain specifications and features. Let’s discuss a few laser engraving machines for jewelry.
Fiber laser marking machines are widely used to create high-precision markings on hard metals. They’re able to make deep engravings that can resist wear and tear. This makes them perfect for etching small messages inside wedding rings or detailed artwork on necklaces and pendants. Engravers typically use fiber laser systems for laser engraving silver, gold and platinum materials.
CO2 laser marking machines are ideal for coated non-metals and organic materials. They’re most effective on softer options, making them perfect for creating intricate designs or detailed etched images on wood, leather or acrylic pieces.
A metal jewelry engraving machine is quickly becoming a valuable asset for manufacturers in the jewelry industry — here’s why.
Laser engraving is more precise than traditional etching. A laser jewelry engraving machine is capable of achieving fine, detailed designs that are nearly impossible to replicate through hand or rotary engraving, which can be prone to human error.
With a focused laser beam, manufacturers can create complex and intricate patterns, messages, portraits or even QR codes and NFC tags on the smallest of surfaces.
Laser engraving systems can also be used for various jewelry items on a wide range of materials, from laser engraving gold to gemstones.
Laser engraving allows designers to create 2D and 3D designs on their jewelry. These tools are ideal for manufacturers who want to expand their creative horizons — and for those whose clients come with custom orders. Fiber laser machines are best for nearly all types of metals.
Using a laser engraving machine for jewelry also allows for more consistency. Designers and manufacturers must often create batches of the same items. With the help of laser engravers, they’ll be able to produce the same level of precision and quality in each single item, which is crucial for brand consistency.
Laser engraving is efficient in terms of time and cost. Compared to traditional engraving, laser processes are less labor-intensive and time-consuming as they can quickly etch consistent, high-quality designs. As a result, production efficiency and volumes can increase. Furthermore, the need for one or multiple skilled craftsmen is also reduced, which can help minimize human resources costs.
Because laser engravers alter a material’s surface, the heat melts and bonds the material to create a long-lasting mark. The etched design is durable and capable of resisting fading and wearing over time. It’s a highly valuable advantage, considering jewelry is often worn daily.
When using a laser machine for jewelry, manufacturers also have the ability to create limited-edition pieces easily. They can readily etch various types of designs on different precious and non-precious materials, which opens a world of creative avenues. Offering personalization of jewelry pieces can offer a great competitive advantage as well.
To use a jewelry laser engraver to complete intricate jewelry designs, you can follow these general steps:
Engraving jewelry is an intricate craft, but with the help of a jewelry laser engraver, you can offer high-quality, custom pieces more efficiently. If you’re considering investing in a laser engraving machine designed specifically for jewelry, Laser Marking Technologies (LMT) is here.
Our eCobalt GEM Laser System offers professional precision and ease of use, giving you intricate, consistent results. With over a decade of collective laser experience at our disposal and 24/7 support, we’re able to help you with your unique needs.
Utilize a leader in laser marking and engraving technology, and experience our state-of-the-art, cost-effective solutions for yourself. Contact us today for further information or to request a quote.
