Engraving a necklace – 5 easy methods

Engraving a necklace is a timeless way to personalize jewelry and give it a special meaning. Whether it's initials, an important date, or a custom design, there are various methods available, ranging from modern high-tech machines to traditional hand tools.

In this article, we present 5 practical methods for engraving a necklace – each with the appropriate tools, techniques, advantages and limitations.

Method 1: Engrave the necklace with a laser engraving machine

Engraving a necklace with a laser engraving machine is one of the most precise, efficient, and professional methods. Whether you're working with metal, wood, leather, or acrylic pendants, laser engraving delivers clean and consistent results, even on small or intricate pieces.

Tools and materials needed for laser engraving a necklace:

• Laser engraving machine for necklaces
  Fiber laser: Best for metals (e.g., gold, silver, stainless steel, titanium)
  Diode laser: Can be used for wood, acrylic or coated rings.
• Design software (e.g. LightBurn, LaserPecker Software & App )
• Necklace pendant or tag (metal, wood, acrylic, etc.)

Steps for engraving a necklace:

Step 1: Prepare the design

Create or import your design into the engraving software. Add text, logos, patterns, or even photos. Adjust the dimensions to fit the size of the pendant.

Step 2: Secure the trailer

Place the necklace pendant flat on the work surface or secure it with a jig.

Step 3: Adjust machine settings

Adjust the power, speed, and line spacing according to the material. Focus the laser precisely using auto or manual focus.

Step 4: Perform a test engraving (optional, but recommended)

Test the settings on a similar scrap piece to optimize the parameters.

Step 5: Engrave the necklace

Start the engraving process. Monitor the engraving for any misalignments or smoke (use air supply or ventilation if necessary).

Step 6: Clean the trailer

Wipe off any residue with a damp cloth or, if necessary, polish metal surfaces.

Advantages & disadvantages of laser engraving a necklace:

Advantages:

• High precision and attention to detail, even with small text or complex designs
• Fast production – ideal for serial engravings
• Compatible with various materials (metal, wood, acrylic, leather)
• Non-contact engraving – no tool wear or surface damage
• Perfect for commercial applications and personalized gifts

Disadvantages:

• High purchase costs for the machine

💡 Ideal for laser engraving a necklace:

• Stainless steel tags
• Staff pendant
• Dog tags
• wooden or acrylic pendants
• Logo engraving on name badges

Method 2: Engrave the necklace with a rotary tool or engraving pen

Engraving a necklace with a rotary tool or a hand-held engraving pen is a popular choice for beginners and DIY enthusiasts. It's a cost-effective, practical method that gives you the flexibility to personalize necklaces without needing expensive machinery.

Required tools & equipment:

• Rotary tool (e.g. Dremel) or engraving pen
• Diamond or carbide milling cutters (for metal)
• Necklace pendant or tag (preferably soft metals such as aluminium, brass or copper; also works on wood and acrylic)
• Use a clamp or vise to hold the trailer stable.
• Masking tape or stencil (optional, to guide the design)
• Pencil or marker to sketch the design.

Steps for engraving a necklace:

Step 1: Sketch or transfer the design

Draw your design or text directly onto the pendant with a pencil. You can also use a stencil or apply masking tape and trace the design.

Step 2: Secure the trailer

Secure the trailer firmly with a clamp or anti-slip mat to prevent movement.

Step 3: Select the appropriate milling cutter

Use a fine diamond or engraving cutter for precise work.

Step 4: Start engraving

Set the rotary tool to low to medium speed and carefully engrave over your design – let the cutter do the work and apply light pressure. Take your time with curves and small text to avoid slippage.

Step 5: Cleaning and polishing

Wipe the surface clean with a soft cloth. You can also use fine sandpaper or polish to remove burrs or rough edges.

Advantages and disadvantages of engraving with a rotary tool or engraving pen:

Advantages:

• Cost-effective – low entry costs compared to laser or CNC machines
• Beginner-friendly – ​​easy to learn with a little practice.
• Portable – small, lightweight tools for home use
• Suitable for various materials: metal, wood, plastic, acrylic
• Ideal for unique individual pieces or handmade gifts

Disadvantages:

• Less precise than digital methods (laser/CNC)
• Difficult to control, especially with small or smooth pendants.
• Time-consuming for detailed designs
• Not suitable for mass production
• Vibrations and noise can be tiring during longer sessions.

💡 A rotary tool or engraving pen is best suited for:

• Soft metal pendants or charms
• Handmade gifts or craft items for markets
• DIY personalization without digital tools
• Engraving of initials, dates or simple symbols

Method 3: Engraving a necklace with a chisel and hammer (hand engraving)

Hand engraving with chisel and hammer is the oldest traditional method of jewelry engraving. It lends a timeless, handcrafted look and is ideal for those who value artistry and unique, detailed work.

Required tools & materials:

• Engraving chisels or gravers (various shapes and sizes)
• Small jeweler's hammer
• Necklace pendant or tag (typically soft metals such as gold, silver or brass)
• Work board or engraving block to stabilize the piece
• Magnifying glass or microscope for detailed work
• Pencil or marker for sketching the design
• Safety goggles and gloves

Steps for engraving a necklace:

Step 1: Prepare the design

Lightly sketch your design or text onto the pendant using a pencil or marker. Carefully plan the engraving depth and direction.

Step 2: Secure the trailer

Place the pendant firmly on a work board or engraving block to stabilize it.

Step 3: Select chisel

Choose the appropriate chisel type based on your design – flat, V-shaped or round.

Step 4: Begin engraving

Hold the chisel at the correct angle. Gently tap the chisel with the jeweler's hammer to refine the design. Work slowly and precisely along your design lines.

Step 5: Refine and clean

Use fine files or polishing tools to smooth any rough edges. Clean the pendant with a soft cloth to remove dust and residue.

Advantages & disadvantages of hand engraving:

Advantages:

• Unique, handcrafted appearance with artistic value
• Deep, long-lasting engraving that lasts.
• No power supply or high-tech machinery required

Disadvantages:

• It requires a lot of skill, practice, and patience.
• More complex process compared to machine engraving
• Errors difficult to correct
• Not suitable for very hard metals without experience.

💡 Hand engraving is best suited for:

• High-quality, custom-made jewelry
• Engravings in vintage or antique style
• Personalized gifts with handcrafted charm
• Soft metal pendants that require deep, textured designs

Method 4: Engrave a necklace using a jewelry CNC machine

Engraving necklaces with a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine combines precise milling with automation. This method is ideal for jewelers or companies that require detailed and consistent engravings on metal or other hard materials.

Required tools & equipment:

• Jewelry CNC engraving machine (a milling machine for small, detailed work)
• Computer with CAD/CAM software
• Cutting/engraving milling cutters (diamond-coated or carbide)
• Necklace pendant or tag (metal such as gold, silver, stainless steel or brass)
• Clamping device or clamp to fix the trailer during processing
• Safety equipment (safety goggles, gloves, dust mask)

Steps for engraving a necklace:

Step 1: Create the engraving design

Create or import your design in CAD software. Convert the design to a CNC-compatible format using CAM software. Adjust parameters such as depth of cut, speed, and toolpath.

Step 2: Setting up the machine

Secure the necklace pendant firmly in the CNC machine's clamping device. Install the appropriate engraving cutter.

Step 3: Conduct test simulation

Use software simulation to check the toolpath and avoid errors.

Step 4: Start engraving

Start the milling process and monitor it for any potential problems. The CNC machine will precisely engrave your design onto the surface of the pendant.

Step 5: Finishing and Cleaning

Carefully remove the pendant. Clean and polish the engraved area to improve its appearance.

Advantages & disadvantages of engraving with a jewelry CNC machine

Advantages:

• High precision and repeatability across multiple pieces
• Suitable for hard metals and complex shapes
• Enables intricate and detailed designs
• Automated process reduces manual work

Disadvantages:

• High purchase costs and maintenance of the machine
• Requires training in the operation of CAD/CAM software and CNC machines.

💡 The jewelry CNC machine is best suited for:

• Professional jewelers or small manufacturing companies
• Detailed logos, patterns and serial numbers on metal pendants
• Hard metals, where laser engraving is less effective

Method 5: Engrave a necklace with a Cricut Maker

The Cricut Maker is a versatile cutting machine that is very popular with crafters. Although it is primarily designed for materials such as vinyl, paper, and fabric, with the right tools and accessories it can also be used for light engraving or embossing on softer materials such as leather or anodized aluminum.

Required tools & materials:

• Engraving or embossing tool (Cricut Engraving Tip or Debossing Tip)
• Computer or mobile device with Cricut Design Space software
• Necklace pendant or tag made from compatible materials (leather, anodized aluminum, soft wood, acrylic)
• Masking tape (optional, to secure the pendant)

Steps for engraving a necklace:

Step 1: Create a design

Create or upload your design to Cricut Design Space. Adjust the size to fit the tag.

Step 2: Prepare the trailer

Secure the pendant to the cutting mat so that it doesn't move during engraving. Use masking tape if necessary.

Step 3: Insert the engraving tool

Insert the engraving or embossing tip into the Cricut Maker tool holder.

Step 4: Select material settings

Select the correct material profile in the software (e.g., leather, anodized aluminum) and adjust the pressure and speed if your machine/software allows it.

Step 5: Start engraving

Send the design to the Cricut Maker and have the pendant engraved or embossed. Monitor the process to achieve the desired engraving depth and level of detail.

Step 6: Cleaning

Remove the pendant and wipe away any residue. Light polishing can further improve the final result.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Engraving with Cricut Maker

Advantages:

• Affordable and accessible for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts
• Easy to use with user-friendly software
• Ideal for soft materials such as leather and anodized aluminum
• Perfect for simple designs, monograms, or decorative patterns

Disadvantages:

• Limited to soft or coated materials; not suitable for hard metals.
• Engraving depth and detail accuracy are limited compared to laser or CNC machines.

💡 Cricut Maker is best suited for:

• Leather pendants with personalized designs
• Anodized aluminum tags or jewelry with light engraving
• Hobbyists who want to customize soft material pendants

Conclusion

The engraving on a necklace can be as simple or as detailed as you like. From the precision of laser and CNC engraving to the artisanal charm of hand engraving, each method offers unique advantages, depending on your needs, budget, and experience level.

For hobbyists, tools like rotary engravers and even the Cricut Maker open up creative possibilities at home. Understanding these five methods will help you choose the best technique to add a personal touch to your necklaces—making each piece a unique work of art.