We, at Brunel Trophies, were recently approached by a client with idea outside our normal remit, to design and produce bespoke chess pieces suspended in 3D within solid blocks of glass. What began as a conceptual idea, we found the solution and it quickly evolved into a technically demanding manufacturing project that pushed the limits of laser engraving precision, but we were happy to take on the challenge!
The client’s vision was simple in description but complex in execution—each chess piece would appear to float inside a perfectly clear glass cube. Unlike surface engraving, where designs are etched onto the exterior, this project required volumetric 3D engraving, with each detail embedded at precise depths within the glass.
 |
 |
To achieve this, the chess piece designs must be converted into digital 3D models. These models are then sliced into microscopic points using specialized software that maps coordinates throughout the interior volume of the glass. A high-powered laser is then used to focus energy at specific points inside the block, creating tiny fractures that appear as white dots when viewed from outside.
Each chess piece requires thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—of laser points to accurately capture its shape and detail. Precision is critical; even a slight misalignment would distort proportions or create visual noise within the glass.
 |
 |
The project not only demonstrated the capabilities of modern engraving techniques but also highlighted how precision manufacturing can transform a classic game into a work of art, and the proof is in the pudding!
Do you have any exciting upcoming projects that require bespoke engraving? Drop us an email and our team will gladly help you out.