Punches & Stamps

Elevate your metalwork with precise punches and stamps for hallmarking, maker's marks, and decorative detailing. Essential tools for every bench.

These punches and stamps are fundamental for clearly marking your creations with hallmarks, maker's identifiers, or unique designs. Jewellers and silversmiths rely on them daily for professional finishing. When selecting, consider the hardness of the steel for durability and the clarity of the impression it will leave on various metal gauges, from fine silver to thicker brass.

What's in this collection

  • Hallmark & Maker Mark Stamps — Essential for legally marking precious metals with assay office approval or your unique maker's identifier.
  • Letter & Number Sets — Create personalised inscriptions, dates, or serial numbers with durable, clear stamping for any project.
  • Decorative Pattern Stamps — Add intricate textures and visual interest to sheet metal surfaces for unique aesthetic appeal.
  • Disc Cutters — Produce clean, precise metal discs of various sizes quickly and efficiently for bezels or components.

Tested at our Birmingham bench

At our Small Heath workshop, each punch and stamp undergoes rigorous hands-on inspection. We assess their heft, the sharpness of the die, and the quality of the steel. Working alongside trade silversmiths, we ensure these tools deliver consistent, crisp impressions on silver, gold, and brass, meeting the demands of professional jewellery production.

Browse the full range below, or read our buying guides on the Bench Journal.
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From the Bench Journal

Punches & stamps — buying & technique guides

Punches & stamps — frequently asked questions

Answers from our Birmingham bench, written by working jewellers and silversmiths.

What stamps do I need for hallmarking silver?
For official UK hallmarking, you'll need a set of letter punches for the date letter, a hallmark punch for the assay office mark, and your registered maker's mark punch. Ensure these meet the required standards for clarity and depth of impression on precious metals. We stock a comprehensive range for this purpose.
Which punches are best for decorative texturing on jewellery?
For decorative texturing, consider our range of pattern stamps. These include floral designs, geometric shapes, and abstract textures. For fine detail, look for stamps with clear, sharp edges. They work well on softer metals like silver, copper, and brass to add visual interest and depth to your pieces.
What is a disc cutter and when would I use one?
A disc cutter is a tool used to punch out perfectly circular discs from sheet metal. You'd use it when you need consistent, clean-edged circles for components like earring blanks, bezel settings, or decorative elements. They are essential for efficient production of multiple identical shapes.
How do I get a clean impression from a metal stamp?
Achieve a clean impression by using a sturdy, flat striking surface, ideally a steel bench block. Place your workpiece firmly on the block. Hold the stamp perpendicular to the metal and strike it with a firm, decisive blow from a heavy hammer, such as a 1lb or 2lb ball-pein hammer. Practice is key.
What's the difference between a design stamp and a hallmark punch?
A design stamp is used for decorative purposes, creating patterns or motifs on jewellery. A hallmark punch, however, is specifically for official marks required by assay offices, such as the maker's mark, assay office mark, and date letter. Hallmark punches must meet strict legal specifications for clarity and size.
How hard should my punches be for metal stamping?
For general metal stamping on jewellery metals like silver, brass, and copper, punches typically made from hardened tool steel, around 58-60 HRC, are ideal. This hardness ensures they can withstand repeated strikes without deforming, while remaining sharp enough for clear impressions.
What steel grade are your letter and number stamps made from?
Our letter and number stamps are typically manufactured from high-grade tool steel, hardened and tempered to approximately 58-60 Rockwell Hardness (HRC). This ensures durability and the ability to produce crisp, clear impressions on various metals without mushrooming or premature wear.
How do I incorporate stamping into my jewellery making workflow?
Stamping is often done early in the process, after cutting out your metal blank but before significant shaping or soldering. It’s best performed on a flat surface. Ensure your design is planned and marked out before stamping to avoid errors. It’s a quick way to add detail.
Can I use punches and stamps on anodised aluminium?
Yes, you can stamp anodised aluminium. However, the stamping process will cut through the anodised layer, exposing the bare metal underneath. This can create a pleasing contrast. Use a medium-weight hammer and ensure the aluminium is well-supported on a steel bench block for best results.
How do I store my punches and stamps to prevent damage?
Store your punches and stamps in a dedicated holder or case to prevent them from knocking against each other. Keep them clean and dry to prevent rust. For long-term storage, a light coating of oil can offer protection. This preserves the sharp edges and prevents damage.
Do you stock these punches and stamps in the UK?
Yes, all our punches and stamps are stocked in our Birmingham warehouse. Orders placed before 2pm Monday to Friday are dispatched the same day. We offer free UK delivery on orders over £30, ensuring you receive your tools promptly for your workshop needs.
Do you offer trade discounts for workshops or larger orders?
Yes, we offer trade pricing for professional workshops. Please email us at info@toolsmithltd.co.uk with your workshop name and an estimate of your average monthly spend. We can then set up a trade account with preferential pricing for your bulk purchases.