Make It Personal
Engraving & Personalization
Initials, a date, a signature or a line of handwriting: a few words that turn a beautiful piece into a personal one.
Hand & Machine Engraving
A Message Meant to Last
A gift becomes an heirloom the moment it carries a name. Hamilton offers hand and machine engraving on select jewelry, watches and giftware, so a wedding band, a watch caseback or a christening cup can say exactly what you mean.
Bring your own wording, or let a specialist help you choose it. Lettering styles, placement and lead time are confirmed with you before any work begins.
What Can Be Personalized
Engraving Options
Watches
A caseback inscription marks a milestone without touching the dial.
Rings & Bands
Dates, initials or a short phrase inside the shank of a wedding band or signet ring.
Pendants, Lockets & Bracelets
A monogram, a name or a line of handwriting on the piece itself.
Giftware & Barware
Frames, cups, flasks and decanters for weddings, christenings and milestone gifts.
Two Techniques
Hand or Machine?
Hand engraving is the art of removing metal to create lettering with manual tools. Finished pieces vary slightly in appearance even from the same engraver, which is exactly the point: each is one of a kind.
Machine engraving uses technology to cut or displace the metal, reproducing our most popular lettering styles with perfect consistency. Your specialist will recommend the method that suits the piece and the inscription.
Engraving FAQ
Which items can be engraved?
Engraving is available on select jewelry, watches and giftware. Ask in store or at the time of purchase; a specialist will confirm whether a particular piece can be engraved and which method suits it.
What is the difference between hand and machine engraving?
Hand engraving removes metal with manual tools, so each piece carries the character of its engraver and no two are identical. Machine engraving cuts or displaces the metal to reproduce our most popular lettering styles consistently.
How long does engraving take?
Lead times depend on the piece and the method. Your specialist will give you a completion date when you place the order; please allow extra time ahead of holidays.
Can I engrave something I did not buy at Hamilton?
In many cases, yes. Bring the piece to any Hamilton location so we can assess the metal and the space available.
Can engraved items be returned?
Engraved, sized or otherwise altered items cannot be returned or exchanged, so we confirm the wording, font and placement with you before work begins.
How much does engraving cost?
Pricing depends on the method, the number of characters and the piece itself. Ask in store or at the time of purchase for a quote.