You will probably have seen me rant and rave over my new laser engraver, well, it's not so new anymore but I'm still raving about it!
But I want to let you all know the difference between the process of engraving and etching onto silver.
When a metal has been engraved, it has a deep physical indentation pressed into the metal, much like the round studs that I make (top sellers, by the way!). This indentation can remain in the metal for years, decades and sometimes forever, depending on the thickness of the metal and depth of the indentation.
However, etched metal is very different. The device I have is a laser engraver, it works by using a laser beam which is focused onto the surface of silver, which causes heating and vaporization of the material. This process removes a thin layer of silver and creates the desired pattern.
It is a clever process and it gives me the ability to create the most personal and memorable pieces of jewellery. I am able to take photos, scanned or straight from my camera, handwriting and sketches, upload them onto an app on my phone which can magically send it via the powers of Bluetooth to the engraver where it etches it onto the surface of the silver. I am also able to type personal notes or any generic text (even naughty text or swears, sorry mum).
The whole process is wonderful and yet challenging. You have to get the distance from the laser to the silver correct and also the strength of the beam correct. Otherwise you're doomed!
However... I am all about full transparency and honesty and the following information is the driving force behind this blog entry. The etching fades, I wear my etched necklace almost daily, only taking it off for a temporary replacement. I've been wearing mine since I had the engraver in the summer, and yes it has faded. Because there is no deep indentation, it will be affected by wear and tear.
So for this reason, I offer a free refresher of your personalised pieces. If you become dissatisfied with the darkness of the piece, I'm happy to re-do it for you at no extra cost. All I ask is that you pay for the postage and let me cover the rest.
It is of greatest importance to me that your experience is the best it possibly can be, and that you are happy with every piece of jewellery you get from me.
I do hope that this burst of honesty hasn't put you off buying a piece of personalised jewellery, but hopefully my honesty has meant that you're able to make an educated and informed purchase.
Thank you for reading and if you have any questions at all, please do send me an email.
Have a wonderful weekend xx