How are engraving and personalisation services priced at Steven Charles Quance?

At Steven Charles Quance, engraving and personalisation are priced individually rather than at a single fixed rate. The quotation reflects the item being engraved, its material, the chosen method, the size and complexity of the design, the placement and the preparation required. You will receive clear pricing before any work begins, allowing you to approve the proposed personalisation before proceeding.

The main factors considered when preparing a quotation include:

• The jewellery or watch: The shape, size, thickness and condition of the piece can affect the work involved. Engraving a flat pendant or an inside ring surface may require a different approach from engraving a curved watch case, narrow bracelet or uneven setting.
• The material: Gold, platinum, silver and other jewellery or watch materials have different working characteristics. Some surfaces require particular tools, techniques or preparation to achieve a clean and durable result.
• The engraving method: Hand engraving and machine-assisted or laser engraving involve different processes. The most suitable method depends on the material, the available space, the desired finish and whether the design is text, a symbol, a pattern or a more detailed image.
• The amount and style of text: A short date or set of initials will generally involve less preparation than a longer message. Font style, letter size, spacing and readability are also considered, particularly where the available area is limited.
• Design complexity: Simple lettering and straightforward symbols are assessed differently from monograms, handwriting, crests or detailed artwork. A supplied design may need to be adapted so that it engraves clearly at the chosen size.
• Placement and accessibility: Engraving on an easily reached, flat surface may be more straightforward than work inside a narrow band or close to gemstones, settings, clasps or other delicate components.
• Preparation and finishing: Cleaning, securing the piece, setting up the equipment and finishing the engraved area may form part of the work. If the item needs attention before engraving, this will be discussed as part of the quotation.

For a new piece being selected or commissioned, the engraving cost can be considered alongside the jewellery or watch itself. For an existing item, the piece will need to be assessed before a firm quotation can be given. This helps identify any restrictions caused by the material, construction, previous engraving, wear or available space.

Before approval, we can discuss the wording, typeface, size, position and any artwork required. It is important to check spelling, dates, initials and the orientation of the design carefully, as personalisation is intended to be permanent. Where appropriate, a design or layout can be reviewed before the engraving is carried out.

Additional work is not undertaken without discussion. If inspection shows that the proposed design needs adapting, or that preparation, repair or another specialist process is advisable, the implications for the price will be explained before you decide. This is particularly important for valuable, delicate or sentimental jewellery and luxury watches.

To obtain an accurate price, bring or provide details of the item, the material if known, the wording or artwork, the preferred position and any deadline. Photographs can help with an initial discussion, but an in-person assessment may be necessary before the quotation is confirmed. The final price is based on the agreed specification, so changing the design, placement or amount of engraving after approval may require the quotation to be reviewed.

Because each piece is assessed on its own requirements, the most reliable way to establish the cost is to arrange a consultation with Steven Charles Quance. We can then recommend a suitable engraving approach and provide a quotation that matches the jewellery or watch and the personalisation you want.