Laser Etching

Laser Etching is a relatively modern technology compared to the traditional sandblasting technique. It involves a high-powered laser to remove polish from the headstone, but with one pin-sized dot at a time. It’s almost like an ink printer! This allows for the retention of incredible photographic detail. So, if you’re interested in immortalizing certain photographs of people, scenery, locations, pets, favorite items, family heirlooms, scans of handwriting, etc… this engraving method is for you. There are no limitations with fonts either.

Since the laser etching involves more shallow cuts into the polish, a wash of white enamel paint is needed to enhance the contrast between the design and the stone. This also means that this method can only use black granite, like the classic India Black. If you’re interested in having your design on another one of our dozens of colors, please see our sandblasting page. We can also combine the two techniques for the best of both worlds!

Laser Etching Gallery

Johnson tablet & bench
Mojo
Nevaeh Brave Heart

Laser Etching FAQ

I heard that laser etching wears off faster than sandblast etching. Is this true?

This is absolutely not true! Both laser etching and traditional sandblasting involve removing the stone polish to create a permanent design – they’re just using different methods and materials to do it. While traditional sandblasting uses compressed air and sand to remove the stone polish, laser etching uses high powered lasers to remove the polish. No matter what method you choose, the design is going to last as long as the stone does…

Laser etching is only at risk of disappearing through severe damage to the stone or re-polishing work being done to intentionally remove it. The actual etching itself does not wear off, but depending on the environment of where the stone is placed and if color or highlights are added, the color can slightly wear off in time. Poor quality granite can also cause etching to fade, as it is more susceptible to the elements and will degrade faster. Fortunately, LifeSong only carries the highest quality granite available, which is Grade A. So you can rest assured that when you purchase from LifeSong, you’re getting the highest quality stone and that your design will last the longest.

If you have more questions about the laser engraving process or the quality of our stones, please give us a call at 605-343-3023.

Can granite laser etching be colored?

We frequently run laser jobs with added color! It can create an added sense of personalization that pops nicely. Head over to our “Extras” page to discover more about our coloring process.

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