poinçons

Poinçons are small, hand-held tools used to strike materials, typically metal, to create a desired impression or mark. They are often made of hardened steel and feature a raised design or letter on one end, with a flat striking surface on the other. When the flat end is struck with a hammer, the design is transferred to the workpiece. Poinçons are used in a wide variety of applications, including jewelry making, silversmithing, leatherworking, and general metal fabrication.

In jewelry and silversmithing, poinçons are commonly used to apply maker's marks, hallmarks, decorative patterns, or to texture metal surfaces. The precision required in these crafts often necessitates finely detailed poinçons. For instance, a maker's mark poinçon ensures authenticity and provenance. Hallmarking poinçons, on the other hand, are used to denote the purity of precious metals, following legal standards.

Leatherworkers use poinçons for decorative stamping, creating intricate designs on belts, bags, and other leather goods. These can range from simple geometric shapes to elaborate pictorial scenes. The impact of the poinçon compresses and deforms the leather, leaving a permanent impression.

In broader metalworking, poinçons can be used for numbering, lettering, or creating specific industrial marks. They are essential for identifying parts, tracking production, or simply adding a personal touch to handcrafted items. The size and shape of the poinçon, as well as the force applied, influence the depth and clarity of the impression. Proper technique is crucial to avoid damaging the workpiece or the poinçon itself.