Here is a brilliant example of how engraving can to bring a really simple item to life and also add a personal touch. The item is nothing more than a very plain rectangular silver bookmark, but after being engraved with the customer’s coat of arms it is transformed into a rather special gift.
A while back a customer approached me to restore an old letter box. Not the Royal Mail pillar box type, but a wooden box covered with red and gold embossed leather. Once upon a time this container was used for storing letters under lock and key. It was inlaid with beautiful engraved brass fittings, one of which had been lost.
Unfortunately the lock had been removed, the box damaged, and it was too expensive to replace, the lock being of an unusual type.
It was decided that the best solution would be to use the existing engraving as a guide…
…and instead make two inlaid brass pieces to replace the missing parts, with engraving to match the rest.
Here’s a final detail of inlaid brass handle engraved with scrolls and flowers. I love how the engraving has darkened over time. The rich patina adds depth to the engraving.
Here is a bangle I recently engraved for a customer. Inscribed is a simple script font with names and dates. The tricky aspect of a job like this is getting the engraving an even depth. The bangle has a hammered surface which, when magnified looks like giant hills and craters in the surface of the metal. One has to negotiate these crests and valleys by subtly controlling and adjusting the engraving tool to make the engraving of an even thickness and depth.
The beautiful silver bangle with gold detail was made by jeweller Syann van Niftrik
