Engraving the inside of a ring is a popular technique amongst newlyweds and jewellery makers. It’s a way of personalising them so that they aren’t just regular wedding rings, they’re special and unique.
Engraved rings are also popular amongst those who are celebrating the life of a loved one, by engraving a special message, date, or symbol into a gifted ring. The benefit of engraving the inside of a ring, over the outside, is that the message will not fade away on any choice of metal – no matter how long you wear the ring on your finger.
But how much does it cost to have a ring engraved exactly? And how can you engrave the inside of a ring if you decide to do it yourself? We’re here to answer all of your questions – including a step-by-step process on how to engrave a ring by hand, using the Presidium mini engraving machine, plus some ideas for what to get engraved on wedding rings.
Answering your questions on engraved rings
You may be wondering how much it costs to have a ring engraved exactly. And how can you engrave the inside of a ring if you decide to do it yourself? What can I engrave on a wedding ring? We’re here to answer all of your questions, and provide you with some of our wedding ring engraving ideas. We’ve even included a step-by-step process on how to engrave a ring by hand, using the Presidium mini engraving machine.
How much does it cost to have an engraving on the inside of a ring?
First things first, as a newlywed you might be wondering how much engraving the inside of a ring costs. In a jewellers’ this will typically cost up to £25, often with a character limit – so if you go above that limit, you’re likely to be charged more. This is perfect for loving couples who are looking for a one-off piece. But if you’re a jewellery maker who designs rings for a living, it may be worth learning how to engrave a ring to add it to your repertoire.
How to engrave a ring
As a jewellery maker, you may be wondering how to start your own engraving business – so you can share special messages between loved ones. Depending on your level of skill or the design you wish to engrave, you can take different approaches. For example, laser engraving is a popular method amongst many jewellers, and involves burning the surface of the ring, rather than scratching it. But if you’re just starting out, you’re probably looking for something that’s a little simpler, and cheaper. Find out how to engrave a ring by hand below.
How to engrave a ring by hand
Looking for something more precise? The Presidium Inside Ring Mini Engraving Machine is a small, reliable manual engraving machine that offers consistent, single letter engraving. When engraving the inside of a ring with this machine, you will need a ring that’s around 2mm at its narrowest point.
To set up the Presidium engraving machine:
- Turn the knob anti-clockwise to expand the three jaws at the top of the machine.
- Place your chosen ring in the grooves of the three jaws and secure tightly by turning the knob clockwise. Looking from the side, make sure that the ring is lined up properly to ensure that your message is straight when engraving the inside of a ring.
Top tip: If you’re using a thicker band, release the jaws and turn them around to reveal larger grooves that are suitable for larger rings.
- To adjust your letter spacing, loosen the wing nut to turn the adjusting screw to reach your desired spacing – you can set your adjustment from a three to six teeth movements. Then, tighten the wing nut to lock the adjusting screw in place.
- To change the engraving dial, loosen the screw and then pull and hold the silver lever to its side. This will disengage the connection and allow you to lift and remove the dial. Replace or change your dial to the reverse side and then release the lever, re-engaging the connection and securing the engraving dial in place. Then re-tighten the screw.
Your machine is now set up, but what’s the process behind engraving the inside of a ring?
- When your machine is set up and your ring is secured, choose your first letter by pulling on the bottom lever and spinning the dial.
- Then, pull out the stylus from the middle of the machine, and press down on the top to reveal the tip. Press down until the stylus tip reaches the letter on the dial.
- Take the lever with the ball point and pull it down, lifting the ring so that it reaches the diamond engraving point.
Top tip: If you pull the ball point lever down too tightly, you’ll risk breaking the diamond tip. So, make sure the connection isn’t too tight.
- Still pressing down the top of the stylus, trace out the letter on the engraving dial. The diamond tip will mimic its movements and engrave the letter onto your ring.
- Release the ball point lever and then push it upwards to move on to the next letter space. Do not take pressure off the top of the stylus until you have done this to avoid scratching the surface of your ring.
- Repeat the process from step one, choosing your next letter or symbol and engraving it onto the ring, until your message is complete.
If you’re looking to engrave at opposite sides of the ring, lift up the ball point lever to spin the ring round and start engraving in a new position.
Wedding ring engraving ideas
Wondering what to engrave on a ring for him or her? Engraved rings can have anything from an etching of a couple’s wedding date as an inside ring engraving, or a special message or quote to celebrate the life of a loved one. Some people also like to engrave intricate, decorative designs onto the outside of the ring to add a personalised touch. Some of the best ring engraving ideas you may take inspiration from are:
- Yours and your partner’s initials, including the date of your wedding
- A memorable quote that you share(d) with a loved one
- One simple word or phrase, such as “I love you”, “always”, or “to my soul mate”
And that’s how to engrave the inside of a ring using the Presidium ring engraving machine! It’s simple and creates precise, quality engravings – suitable for any wedding band. Who knew that engraving the inside of a ring could be so easy?
Looking to add some extra detail to the outside of your ring? Want to learn other techniques on how to engrave a ring? Then check out our range of GRS jewellery tools – designed to speed up the process of engraving by hand – including a wide range of gravers, clamps and vices. Pick up all the jewellery tools and supplies you need for Cooksongold today.
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