Jewelry hallmarking: what is it?

It is possible to personalize jewelry thanks to the punching technique also called stamping. This trendy process has been competing with engraving for a few years. But, what is punching? How it works ? Why is jewelry stamping as popular as engraving?

I tell you everything =)

Jewelry Hallmarking: Definition

Punching is a technique used in various trades to mark a support. Jewelry hallmarking involves marking jewelry with metal stamps (called hallmarks) that feature an embossed character. Thus, the jewels will be marked/hallmarked with this character.

Today, many trendy jewels are personalized thanks to this method which seduces by its irregular aspect.

Punching: a technique to personalize your jewelry

Hallmarking allows you to personalize jewelry. Instead of engraving them with a special machine, you just have to hit the metal with punches.

The punches represent different characters: letter, number, astrological sign, symbol... They allow you to create different models.

 

So, you can make initial jewelry, astro sign jewelry or 100% personalized jewelry.

You have the possibility to create personalized bracelets and rings giving you metal blanks that you can shape. But you can also stamp medallions to add them to chains to form necklaces or ring supports to form charm rings. 

 

 

Jewelery stamping: an artisanal engraving

What is the difference between punching and engraving? Engraving (machine) is a personalization technique that offers a result that is both clean and precise. Stamping, on the other hand, is a technique that offers an irregular result. This irregularity further emphasizes the craftsmanship.

Is it better to choose traditional engraving or stamping? In reality, it is simply a matter of taste. Some people are charmed by irregularity while others crave precision. 

When it comes to punching, customization can be more complex. Indeed, writing a word, a first name or a sentence requires the need to be able to punch straight.

Jewelry hallmarking: how does it work?

To engrave your jewelry using the stamping technique, you must first purchase a stamping kit.

Buying punches, a metal block and punch supports (blanks) will allow you to make a handmade piece of jewelry easily.

punching kit

Then, the jewelry stamping takes place in several stages.

1. You must place your punch support (draft ring, bracelet or medallion) on a metal block.

2. You choose your punch to personalize your jewelry.

3. You hit your punch with a hammer.

4. You shape your jewel using different tools. Here I am making a bangle bracelet. 

 

Jewelry stamping: where to buy your stamping kit?

I recommend that you buy your punching kit from Impressart. Leader on the market, they offer punch supports, tools and punches that will allow you to make the jewelry of your choice.