What are blanks in jewellery making?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
In jewellery making, blanks are flat, plain shapes that have been cut or stamped out of sheet metal as the starting point for a piece. A blank might be a disc, oval, rectangle or more complex outline, and it is essentially the raw form before any doming, texturing, piercing or stone-setting begins. Jewellers buy or cut blanks in silver, gold and copper to save time, and they are also widely used in hand-stamping and engraving work where a smooth, clean surface is needed before the design is added.
Frequently asked questions
- What metals are blanks made from?
- The most common materials are fine silver, sterling silver, copper, brass and aluminium, because they are easy to cut and work. Gold blanks are used too, though less often for practice or prototyping given the cost.
- What is the difference between a blank and a finding?
- A blank is a plain flat shape that will become the body of a piece, like a pendant or brooch, while a finding is a pre-made functional component like a clasp, jump ring or ear wire. Both are bench supplies, but they serve different purposes.
- Can you buy pre-cut blanks for jewellery making?
- Yes, pre-cut metal blanks are widely available from jewellery suppliers in a range of shapes and gauges. They are popular with beginners and with artists who want to focus on surface decoration rather than cutting.
Designing a ring
Talk through blanks with us
Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.
Contact the studio