What Laser Will Engrave Stones?
Ever tried scratching “I was here” on a rock, only to give up sore fingers? The short answer: CO₂, Fiber, and YAG lasers can engrave stones. But which one makes your granite gleam or marble pop? Keep reading—this guide to Laser Engravers for Stone spills the secrets!
Types of Lasers for Stone Engraving
Stone engraving has been around for centuries, but lasers have turned what used to take hours into something that can be done in minutes. Not every laser is suited for the job, though. Here’s how the main types stack up.
CO₂ lasers—industry standard
CO₂ lasers are the go-to choice for most stone engraving projects. They produce crisp, detailed results and can handle everything from granite plaques to marble tiles.
Strengths and limitations
The biggest strength of CO₂ lasers is their versatility. They engrave stone cleanly and leave a nice contrast. However, they don’t actually cut stone, and extremely hard materials can push them to their limits. Think of them as the “workhorse” in the workshop—they’ll get most jobs done, but they’re not superheroes.
Diode lasers—small projects
Diode lasers are like the pocket-sized multitools of the engraving world. They’re affordable, portable, and perfect for hobbyists experimenting at home.
Best uses and constraints
If you’re engraving river stones for a wedding or adding initials onto pebbles, a diode laser can do the trick. The downside? They lack the power for larger or denser stone surfaces. In short, they’re great for crafts, not construction.
Fiber lasers—specialized cases
Fiber lasers are a bit different. They’re more often used for marking metals, but under certain conditions, they can leave shallow marks on certain stones.
These are not your first pick for stone engraving, but if you already have one in your shop, it can be fun to experiment. Just don’t expect the deep, detailed engravings that a CO₂ laser can achieve.
Can a Glowforge Engrave Stones?
The Glowforge is a popular machine for wood, leather, and acrylic. But when it comes to stones, things get tricky.
Compatibility and limitations
Yes, a Glowforge can engrave some types of stone, but the results may not be consistent. Softer stones like slate or marble work better, while harder stones may show little contrast. If you already own one, it’s worth testing—but don’t buy a Glowforge just for stones.
What Laser is Best for Slate Coasters?
Slate coasters are one of the most common stone projects for beginners, and for good reason—they engrave beautifully.
Settings and considerations for slate
A CO₂ laser is hands down the best option for slate. Use medium power with slower speeds to bring out the natural contrast. Slate has a softer composition compared to granite, which means you’ll get clear, bright results without pushing your machine to the max.
Can You Laser Engrave Obsidian?
Obsidian looks stunning, but it behaves differently than most stones because it’s volcanic glass.
How obsidian behaves under laser
Obsidian tends to fracture when exposed to high heat. This makes engraving it with lasers unpredictable. Instead of clean lines, you may end up with cracks or cloudy spots.
Recommended approaches for dark glassy stones
If you want to work with obsidian—or similar stones like onyx—consider sandblasting or lower-power laser etching. Sometimes combining masking techniques with a light laser pass can create a subtle, frosted look without risking damage.
Choosing the Right Machine for Stone Engraving
With so many options, how do you know which machine to pick?
Factors to weigh—budget, material, size
Start with your budget. If you’re a hobbyist making gifts or small decor, a diode laser is a safe entry point. If you’re serious about detail and larger projects, a CO₂ laser is worth the investment. Fiber lasers are better left for metal-focused shops with occasional stone experiments.
Think about the size of the stones you’ll engrave too—bigger projects need a larger bed size. In the end, the best machine is the one that fits your goals without breaking your wallet.
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