The Difference Between Impression Print Jewellery and Laser-Engraved Fingerprints

When it comes to creating fingerprint jewellery, there are two main methods: handmade impression print jewellery and laser-engraved fingerprints. While both can look beautiful, the difference lies in how the print is captured and the level of detail that is preserved.

At Meraki Studio, I specialise in impression print jewellery, where a real fingerprint or paw print is pressed into wax and then transformed into metal using the traditional lost wax casting technique. This method ensures that every line, ridge, and scar is kept exactly as it is - nothing is lost in translation.

In this blog, I’ll explain how impression jewellery differs from laser engraving, why the details matter, and why choosing the right method is important if you’re creating a keepsake to be worn and treasured for life.

What is Impression Print Jewellery?

Impression print jewellery is made by taking a direct imprint of your loved one’s fingerprint, paw print, or even nose print into soft jeweller’s wax. That impression is then cast in solid sterling silver or 9ct gold.

This process means that every tiny detail, the depth of the ridges, the subtle marks, and even small imperfections, are preserved in three-dimensional form. You’re not just looking at an image of a fingerprint; you’re wearing the real impression of your loved one’s touch.

It’s tactile, textured, and deeply personal. When you run your finger over the jewellery, you can actually feel their print.

What is Laser-Engraved Fingerprint Jewellery?

Laser-engraved fingerprint jewellery works differently. Instead of taking a physical impression, a photo or ink print of a fingerprint is uploaded and then etched into the surface of the jewellery using a laser machine.

While this method can still produce a lovely piece, the fingerprint is flat; it replicates the lines of the photo, but it doesn’t capture the full depth and uniqueness of the original impression. Fine details can sometimes be lost, depending on the quality of the photo provided.

Laser engraving is faster and often cheaper, but it lacks the authenticity and texture of an impression made directly into wax.

Why the Difference Matters

When you’re creating jewellery that symbolises love, memory, or connection, every detail counts.

• Depth of Detail: Impression prints preserve the ridges and grooves exactly as they are. Laser engraving simply copies what’s in the image.
• Touch and Texture: With impression jewellery, you can feel the print. With engraving, it’s a flat surface.
• Uniqueness: No two impressions are the same. An engraved image may lose the individuality of scars, ridges, or tiny details.
• Longevity: Cast impression jewellery in sterling silver or 9ct gold is durable and timeless, keeping the original impression forever.

When to Choose Impression Print Jewellery

Impression print jewellery is ideal when you want to capture the true essence of a loved one’s fingerprint or a pet’s paw print. It’s especially meaningful for:

• Memorial jewellery – keeping the exact touch of someone close
• Parents or grandparents – preserving a child’s prints forever
• Pet lovers – celebrating a dog or cat’s unique paw print

Because it’s handmade using the lost wax casting method, it takes a little longer to create than an engraved piece. But the result is a one-of-a-kind keepsake that can be passed down through generations.

When Laser Engraving May Be Suitable

Laser-engraved jewellery may be an option if you only have a photo of a fingerprint or an ink print, and no way of taking a physical impression. It can still provide a sentimental connection, but it won’t capture the full depth and individuality of the original.

At Meraki Studio, I focus solely on impression print jewellery because I believe in creating pieces that hold the most authentic details possible.

A Meaningful Gift Leading into Christmas

As Christmas approaches, impression print jewellery makes a truly heartfelt gift. Whether it’s capturing your child’s fingerprint for a parent, or your dog’s paw print for an animal lover, it’s a present that goes beyond the festive season.

If there isn’t enough time to order a finished piece, our wax kits are also a thoughtful gift on their own. They allow your loved one to take an impression at home and then return it to me to be cast into a timeless piece after the holidays.

Why Choose Meraki Studio?

• Handmade on Gadigal Land, Sydney by Lucy, a solo jeweller
• Crafted in sterling silver and 9ct gold using lost wax casting
• Sustainable practices, including recycled gold and silver & ethical gemstones
• Free repairs for life on all our jewellery
• Giving back – $5 from every order goes to Pay The Rent initiative
  

Final Thoughts

Both impression print jewellery and laser-engraved jewellery have their place, but the difference lies in authenticity. If you want to capture the real, tangible texture of your loved one’s fingerprint or pet’s paw print, impression jewellery offers a depth and uniqueness that engraving simply can’t match.

This Christmas, consider gifting a keepsake that holds more than just an image, one that preserves touch, memory, and love in its truest form.

Explore our Impression Print Jewellery Collection here »