A jewellery engraving service adds text, symbols or designs onto rings, necklaces, bracelets and other pieces. Professional engravers use laser or diamond tip techniques to permanently mark your jewellery with names, dates, initials or meaningful messages. Most UK jewellers offer this service either in store or online, transforming standard pieces into unique keepsakes.

This guide covers everything you need to know before booking an engraving appointment. You’ll learn how to choose the right engraver, what to expect with pricing and turnaround times, and what engraving options work best for different jewellery types. Whether you’re personalising an engagement ring or adding a special touch to a gift, this information helps you make informed decisions about your engraving project.

Why jewellery engraving is worth it

Engraving transforms jewellery from a beautiful object into something deeply personal. When you add custom text or symbols to a piece, you create a permanent connection to specific memories, people or moments that matter to you. This personalisation makes jewellery more meaningful for both the wearer and anyone who receives it as a gift.

Creates lasting sentimental value

Your engraved message stays with the piece forever, making it impossible to replace or forget. Wedding bands with anniversary dates become family heirlooms that tell love stories across generations. Engagement rings gain extra significance when you add the proposal location or coordinates, creating a tangible link to that special moment. Many couples choose to engrave their wedding vows or meaningful phrases that capture their relationship.

Engraved jewellery carries emotional weight that standard pieces simply cannot match.

Makes gifts truly unique

Generic presents feel impersonal, but engraving changes that completely. You show real thought when you add someone’s initials, nickname or meaningful date to their jewellery. The recipient knows you invested time choosing words specifically for them, which strengthens your connection and makes the gift unforgettable.

How to choose and book engraving

Finding the right jewellery engraving service requires checking a few key details before you commit. You want an engraver who understands your piece, uses appropriate techniques and delivers within your timeframe. Most UK jewellers handle engravings, but quality and capabilities vary significantly between providers. Research your options thoroughly to avoid disappointing results or delays.

Check what the jeweller can engrave

Not every engraver accepts all jewellery types. Some specialists only work with specific metals like gold or platinum, while others refuse delicate pieces such as thin bands or vintage items. Contact the jeweller directly and describe your piece in detail, including material, size and existing wear. This conversation reveals whether they can accommodate your request and prevents wasted trips or shipping costs.

Always confirm your jeweller can handle your specific piece before booking an appointment.

Ask about engraving techniques

Different methods suit different jewellery. Laser engraving produces precise, modern lettering and handles complex designs well, while diamond tip engraving creates traditional, hand-finished results with character. You should ask which technique the jeweller uses and request examples of their finished work. Quality jewellers show samples freely and explain how each method affects your piece’s appearance and durability.

Book your appointment early

Professional engravers often schedule several days to two weeks ahead, particularly during busy periods like Christmas and Valentine’s Day. Contact jewellers as soon as you decide on engraving, providing your preferred message and any deadline you’re working towards. Early booking gives you flexibility to adjust details and ensures you receive your piece when you need it.

Typical costs and price factors

Jewellery engraving prices vary widely across the UK, but most services charge between £10 and £50 depending on your piece and requirements. High street chains like Timpson typically charge £10 to £20 for basic text engraving on rings, while specialist jewellers in areas like Hatton Garden price between £30 and £50 for more complex work. Understanding these costs helps you budget accurately and choose a jewellery engraving service that matches your needs.

Standard engraving prices

Ring engraving generally costs £15 to £30 for simple text inside wedding bands or signet rings. Necklaces and bracelets command similar prices when you engrave pendants or clasps. Watch backs cost £20 to £35 due to the precision required for curved surfaces. Many jewellers include free engraving when you purchase jewellery from them, particularly for engagement rings and wedding bands, so always ask about this benefit before paying separately.

Free engraving often comes included with major jewellery purchases like engagement rings.

What affects the price

Character count directly impacts cost because longer messages require more time and precision. Most jewellers price per character after the first 15 to 20 letters, adding £1 to £2 for each additional character. Metal type also matters significantly, as platinum and tungsten require specialized equipment and cost more to engrave than gold or silver.

Font complexity changes pricing too. Standard block lettering costs less than script fonts or custom designs, which demand skilled hand finishing. Location influences rates considerably, with London jewellers charging premium prices compared to regional providers. Diamond tip engraving typically costs £5 to £10 more than laser engraving because it requires manual expertise and takes longer to complete. Your piece’s size and accessibility affect pricing as well, since engravers charge extra for difficult areas like narrow ring bands or intricate bracelet clasps.

Turnaround times and what to expect

Most jewellery engraving services complete work within three to seven working days from when they receive your piece. High street jewellers often offer faster service than independent specialists, with some completing simple text engravings in 24 to 48 hours. Your specific timeframe depends on the engraver’s current workload, the complexity of your design, and whether you need any preliminary work like polishing or sizing before engraving begins.

Standard waiting periods

Expect five to ten working days for most professional engraving jobs when you book during normal periods. Simple text inside a ring band typically takes three to five days, while complex designs or multiple pieces require longer. Busy periods like December and February push these timelines out considerably, with some jewellers booking two to three weeks ahead. Contact your chosen provider early and confirm their current lead time before committing to any deadlines.

Always add buffer time to your deadline, particularly during peak gift-giving seasons.

Rush services and extra costs

Many engravers offer expedited service for £10 to £30 extra when you need urgent completion. Same-day or next-day turnaround usually costs an additional £20 to £50 depending on the jeweller and work required. Not all jewellery engraving service providers handle rush orders, and those that do often limit this option to simple text engravings only. You sacrifice some flexibility with rushed work, as engravers may restrict your font choices or message length to meet tight deadlines.

Engraving options and inspiration

Your jewellery engraving service offers various message styles and design elements to create something uniquely yours. Most people engrave names, dates or short phrases, but you can also incorporate symbols, coordinates or drawings depending on your jeweller’s capabilities. Popular choices include wedding dates, initials, meaningful song lyrics or private messages that hold significance between you and the recipient.

Popular message types

Names and initials remain the most common engraving choice, particularly for wedding bands and signet rings. Couples often engrave each other’s names or their wedding date inside engagement rings to mark their commitment. Anniversary dates work well for milestone celebrations, while GPS coordinates commemorate proposal locations or special places. Short phrases like "Always" or "Forever Yours" fit neatly inside ring bands without overcrowding the space.

Keep messages concise so they remain legible and comfortable to wear.

Design elements and symbols

Many engravers add small symbols alongside text, such as hearts, stars or infinity symbols that complement your message. Some specialists offer fingerprint engraving, creating unique patterns from actual fingerprints that represent specific people. Drawing and photo engraving services transform images into wearable art, though these require laser technology and cost more than standard text.

Ready to personalise your jewellery

You now understand how jewellery engraving service providers work, what they charge and how long your project takes. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently choose an engraver who matches your needs and budget. Your personalised piece will carry meaning that lasts generations, whether you engrave wedding bands, engagement rings or special gifts. If you’re designing a bespoke engagement ring or custom piece, A Star Diamonds offers complimentary engraving alongside expert craftsmanship in Hatton Garden, making your jewellery truly unique from start to finish.