How we preserve handwriting, footprints, and meaningful moments in gold.

The Things Worth Preserving Are Rarely Perfect

A handwritten note.

A child’s first footprints.

A signature at the bottom of a birthday card.

These are the details that become more meaningful over time—not because they’re perfect, but because they’re yours.

At Montkai, our personalized jewelry begins by preserving those originals.

For this piece, that meant two tiny footprints and handwriting from a five-year-old.

It Started Here

Every personalized jewelry piece begins with something real.

Sometimes it’s a folded note that’s been tucked away for years.

Sometimes it’s handwriting from someone you love.

Sometimes it’s a newborn footprint card from the hospital.

For this custom engraved pendant, the original keepsake was exactly that—a simple record from the day a child entered the world.

Nothing elaborate.

Just something worth holding onto.

How Our Personalization Process Works

One of the questions we hear most is:

“What do I need to send?”

Usually, just a photo.

Whether it’s handwriting, a footprint, or another keepsake, a clear photo taken with your phone is enough for us to get started.

From there, the process is simple.

1. Send us your keepsake

Share a clear photo of your handwriting, footprint, or another meaningful detail.

2. We prepare your proof

Within 24–48 hours, we’ll prepare artwork showing the exact placement, size, and scale as it will appear on your jewelry.

3. Review and approve

You’ll have the opportunity to make changes until everything feels right. Nothing moves into production until you approve the proof.

4. We engrave your piece

Once approved, engraving typically takes 1–3 business days before your piece moves on to final finishing and shipment.

Throughout the process, we review every proof with our engraving partners to ensure the artwork is balanced, the placement feels intentional, and every detail will translate beautifully to the finished engraving.

Our proof process ensures every detail—from placement to scale—is reviewed before engraving begins.

An Engraving That Becomes Part of the Gold

The engraving itself is intentionally understated.

Rather than creating a deep, dark engraving, we prefer a softer finish that becomes part of the gold itself.

In some light, it’s immediately visible.

Turn the piece slightly, and it quietly disappears before catching the light again.

It’s an approach inspired by fine watchmaking and high jewelry—designed to reward a closer look rather than demand attention.

Personalization FAQs

What if my photo isn’t perfect?

That’s completely okay. Every personalized engraving begins with a proof, so we’ll review your image before production begins. If there isn’t enough detail or the resolution isn’t high enough, we’ll let you know and recommend the best path forward—whether that’s taking another photo or choosing a different keepsake. We’ll always advise you from a technical perspective before moving ahead.

Can I see it before it’s engraved?

Yes. Every personalized piece includes a proof showing the artwork, placement, size, and scale exactly as it will appear, giving you the opportunity to review and request any changes before engraving begins.

How long does personalization take?

We typically prepare your proof within 24–48 hours. Once approved, engraving generally takes 1–3 business days before your piece moves on to final finishing and shipment.

Can you only engrave handwriting?

Not at all. We regularly create personalized jewelry featuring handwriting, children’s footprints, initials, meaningful dates, coordinates, and short messages. If you don’t have handwriting, we’re also happy to help you choose a typeface that feels personal and timeless.

Every personalized piece is designed in our New York studio and produced just a few blocks away in the Diamond District. Staying close to the process allows us to personally review every proof before engraving begins, ensuring each piece reflects the original keepsake as faithfully as possible.

The goal isn’t simply to create a custom engraved piece of jewelry.

It’s to preserve something worth keeping.

What Our Customers Say

"Everyday necklace forever. Thank you for the most beautiful, meaningful necklace." Angela, on the Bria Pendant

"The proof process made me feel completely confident before we engraved anything. I've already gotten so many compliments." Viv, on the Rosemere Pendant

CREATE YOUR PERSONALIZED PIECE