Engraving a design on a gold or silver ring

[SteveC]

Hi,
I really like the antique thin gold momento mori rings that show a skeleton on a black enamel background, with the skeleton running around the ring.
How could I make one?
Does it entail hand engraving with hand tools or a dremel or can it be done by etching in some way.
Would it be very difficult to make?

I've attached a screenshot of the type of ring.

Any thoughts gratefully received.

Best Regards
Steve

[ps_bond]

I'd engrave it, but then that's what I tend to gravitate towards.
It could be etched, but you'd probably struggle to use a toner transfer on a surface that's curved in 2 dimensions like that, so you'd likely have to use a hard ground and create the design in that.
Make up a plate and you could roll print it or press it...
Alternatively, make one up in wax (or CAD) and have it cast.

As for the blacking, vitreous enamel or epoxy would fill it; if it's left as a relieved background then I'd blacken it with printing ink, paint or liver of sulphur if it's silver.

[Dennis]

The intense black, would have to be very resistant to wear, or it would soon look patchy.
Looking at your example, I think it is some modern coating such as titanium black. the design does not look raised, but just blanked off.
I personally think it's a job for a specialist. Try asking Geti Titnium. Dennis

[SteveC]

Thanks for your thoughts, there's a lot there for me to think about.

[SteveC]

Thanks Dennis. Very interesting. It's perhaps a bit ambitious for me right now.