In this live demo filmed at the Permanent Jewelry Expo (PJX) Technical Lab in San Antonio, Texas, we engraved the name Parker on Sterling Silver pendant blanks using the XTool F1 Ultra. With the guidance of Alex Warner, Lead Technical Instructor from Sunstone Engineering, every step of the process is explained in detail, from setting up the workspace to applying the final cleaning pass.
Step 1: Setting Up the Work Area
We began by placing two Sterling Silver pendant blanks onto the laser bed. The XTool F1 Ultra offers a 6” x 6” engraving area, giving plenty of room to engrave multiple pieces at once.
The system automatically adjusted the Z-axis focus by flashing its dual laser beams and capturing images. For reflective surfaces, Alex recommended placing a thin piece of paper over the pendant so the laser can focus properly without disrupting the engraving depth.
Step 2: Using the Camera & Ruler Tools
Next, we enabled the camera tool to capture an image of the pendants and overlay it onto the software workspace. This helped visualize where the engraving would appear. Alex reminded us that while the camera is useful, it isn’t perfectly accurate for small items—so the framing tool later in the process is essential for precision.
Step 3: Creating the Design
Using the text tool (T) in the software, we typed in the name “Parker.” At first, it appeared faint on screen, so we switched the setting from Score to Engrave, which fills in the letters for better visibility.
We also adjusted the text color in the software interface (choosing purple for contrast) and selected a script font for a polished look. Any font installed on the PC is available, which means jewelers can use free or licensed commercial fonts.
Step 4: Scaling and Positioning
With the font selected, we scaled the design down to fit the pendant. Using the mouse and keyboard arrows, we made small adjustments to ensure the engraving aligned perfectly with the pendant’s circle opening.
Alex suggested viewing the framing from multiple angles—both horizontally and vertically—to confirm that the name was centered and level.
Step 5: Framing for Accuracy
The framing function projected the outline of the design onto the pendant surface. While the camera preview looked aligned, the framing tool revealed a slight shift. Small adjustments with the arrow keys corrected this, proving why it’s important not to rely solely on the camera view.
Step 6: Engraving with Saved Settings
With the placement finalized, we selected a saved preset called “Silver Engraving.” This preset, developed during PJX, included tested variables that work well for Sterling Silver, Gold Filled, and Brass.
The software calculated the engraving time—just two seconds. After confirming the lid was closed, we pressed start and watched the laser engrave “Parker” into the pendant.
To deepen the result, Alex demonstrated a quick repeat by double-tapping the green button, which ran the exact same pass again.
Step 7: Cleaning Pass for a Flawless Finish
After engraving three passes, the design looked slightly messy on the surface. To refine it, we ran a cleaning pass with a lighter power setting (30). This removed debris and polished the engraved letters, leaving a crisp, professional result.
Finally, we wiped the pendant with a simple facial tissue—revealing a shiny, finished engraving.
Step 8: Engraving the Second Pendant
The process was repeated on the second pendant. By rotating and aligning the design with framing, we achieved consistent placement. Using the same “Silver Engraving” preset followed by a cleaning pass, both pendants matched beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This demo showed how the XTool F1 Ultra makes Sterling Silver engraving precise and repeatable when paired with pro techniques like:
- Using framing over camera previews for accuracy.
- Saving engraving and cleaning presets for consistent results.
- Running multiple passes followed by a light cleaning pass.
Tools and Supplies to Get Started
If you’re inspired to add engraving handwritten messages to your permanent jewelry business, here are some essentials to explore:
- Gold Filled Connectors & Blanks
Shop Gold Filled Blanks
- Sterling Silver Stamping & Engraving Blanks
Shop Sterling Silver Blanks
✨ At Stones and Findings, we provide everything from high-quality blanks to professional training, so you can confidently expand your skills and offer meaningful, personalized pieces to your clients.
Watch the Full Engraving Demo
Want to see the process in action? 🎥
We filmed the entire engraving demo with Alex Warner live at PJX.
Final Thoughts
Engraving jewelry with handwritten messages is one of the most powerful ways to create meaning and connection through design. With tools like the X Tool F1 Ultra, permanent jewelry artists can bring personal handwriting to life, quickly, beautifully, and with precision.
If you’re attending PJX or looking to expand your jewelry business, engraving is a skill you don’t want to miss.