The Fine Art of Engraving

An intricate engraving of a family crest on a Chippendale Tray (CCT)[/caption] Engraving is the practice of inscribing a design onto a hard, usually flat surface, by cutting grooves into it. The result may be a decorative object, such as when metals or glass are engraved. Traditional engraving, by burin, or more recently with the use of machines, continues to be practiced by master engravers who use a hardened steel tool to cut the design into the surface of the engraved piece. Originally, engraving by hand was the only method of production. In that process the burin was held in the palm of the hand and the actual engraving was done by a combination of pressure and manipulating the workpiece. That process is still practiced today, but with modern technology, various mechanically-assisted engraving systems have developed. Basically, modern engraving machines have gravers which resemble burins, but inside are pneumatic pistons that drive the point much like a jackhammer, at speeds up to 15,000 strokes per minute, thereby greatly reducing the time and effort of traditional hand engraving. Although modern machinery has significantly streamlined the engraving process, there is still a great deal of human precision and expertise involved in creating a quality engraved item. Design, positioning, placement and exact measurement are key techniques that simply cannot be automated. Master engravers are trained to manipulate a design, text, image or combination of all three, to achieve the most pleasing overall composition which must be translated to the engraving machine for production. The in-house engravers at Silver and Pewter Gifts are genuine craftsmen who have mastered the art of engraving on sterling silver, pewter and even glass. Through years of combined experience, they instinctively and consistently engineer perfection so that every piece is a work of art as well as a treasured heirloom. We can create your logo, crest, corporate seal, emblem, burgee, insignia or any other custom design. No concept is too much of a challenge. Traditional hand engraving is also available to produce an inscription that is deeper, more pronounced and ultimately more elegant. Since custom hand engraving is so labor-intensive, we recommend it for sterling pieces and those that hold extra special meaning. Please call us at 800.791.3878 for custom pricing. A personalized, custom engraved gift is a timeless treasure that will be admired for its beauty as well as for the artistry involved in its creation.