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Heraldry at 18mm
Family crest cufflinks bring heraldry down to 18mm. A full coat of arms contains elements that cannot be reproduced at that scale without becoming illegible. Fine hatching, small charges, and complex quarterings are the first casualties of the reduction. What survives well is the central charge, the outline of the shield, and bold divisional lines. The process begins with the artwork you have: a digital file, a photograph of a physical crest, or a scan from a grant of arms.
How Kai Refines the Artwork
Kai reviews every crest brief before production begins. The assessment covers which elements survive the reduction, which need simplification, and what the engraved result will look like at scale. A digital proof is provided for approval before any engraving starts. This step is not optional. It protects the quality of the finished piece and gives you confirmation of the result before the order proceeds. When the artwork is approved and production begins, the engraving is cut into the sterling silver, not surface-marked. The depth of cut is what gives a heraldic design its definition at 18mm.
What to Send
A high-resolution image of the crest. PNG, JPG, PDF, or a vector file. If you only have a low-resolution version, note this when you submit: Kai will advise on what is workable. Include notes on which elements you consider essential. If the crest is for a wedding party, include the number of pairs required. Submit via the contact form below.
Common Questions
Do I need a formal grant of arms to use a family crest?
No. Many families use a crest that has been passed down without a formal grant. If you have a crest that belongs to your family, you can commission it. If you are unsure of the origin or rights, that is worth resolving before commissioning any piece. ZAUNICK does not verify heraldic rights.
What file format should I submit?
A high-resolution PNG, JPG, PDF, or vector file (SVG or AI). The higher the resolution, the more accurately Kai can assess what will transfer to silver. If you only have a low-resolution scan, submit it and note the limitation.
How much simplification is typically needed?
It depends on the complexity of the original. Simple crests with a central charge and clean outline often transfer with minor adjustment. Detailed crests with fine hatching and multiple small elements require more selective simplification. Kai provides a digital proof so you can approve the result before production begins.
Can the same crest be engraved on multiple pairs for a wedding party?
Yes. Wedding party orders with a shared crest are a common commission. Include the number of pairs in your brief and Kai will confirm a timeline for the full set.
Not ready for a crest? Browse the full monogram cufflinks range as an alternative.
Kai reviews every enquiry personally.
