Can a laser engrave a stone?

Laser engraving on stone seems impossible at first. Stones are hard, dense, and irregular. Many people think lasers only work on metals or plastics. But the truth is, with the right laser machine and correct settings, engraving stone is not only possible—it can be precise, fast, and professional.

Yes, a fiber laser marking machine can engrave stone with high contrast and precision. While it’s mostly used on metals, with proper power, speed, and frequency settings, it can produce detailed engravings on granite, marble, and more.

It’s easy to overlook stone as a laser-engraving material. But for industries creating signs, plaques, or custom art, engraving stone can open up new possibilities. Let’s explore how fiber lasers make this possible—and how to get the best results.

Can you laser engrave a stone?

People often assume that stone is too rough or too tough for laser machines. This belief can prevent them from trying a method that actually works—if done right. So, let’s clear the air and explain what makes it possible to engrave on stone using a laser.

Yes, you can engrave stone using a laser. A fiber laser marking machine, though mainly used for metals, can engrave granite, marble, and other stones when configured with the right parameters.

How It Works on Stone

When the laser beam hits the stone surface, it creates a small impact zone. With enough power and the right focus, this beam can break the surface layer of the stone. The result is a contrast between the engraved and non-engraved areas.

Some stones respond better than others. Granite offers a polished, solid surface with consistent color, which makes it ideal for engraving text¹ or artwork. Fiber lasers work best when settings are adjusted for slower speed and higher power, increasing impact per pulse.

At Kirin Laser, we had a client who made custom headstones². Before using our fiber laser³, their manual tools led to slow work and uneven results. With our laser, they cut production time and gained precision, producing cleaner results—even on dark granite.

Will a laser engraver work on rocks?

If you’re wondering whether laser engraving only works on flat, smooth stones—you’re not alone. Many businesses avoid rocks because of uneven surfaces. But with the right setup, even natural rocks can be engraved effectively.

Yes, a laser engraver, particularly a fiber laser, can engrave on various types of rocks. While results depend on rock type, shape, and surface quality, the correct setup can allow engraving on curved or rough stone surfaces.

Consider the Rock's Surface and Texture

Flat, polished stones yield the best results. That said, even rough rocks can be engraved if the beam is focused properly. You may need a fixture to hold the stone securely and keep the laser at the correct distance.

Using a 3-axis fiber laser⁴, like our Kirin Laser models with auto-focusing capability, helps with engraving rocks that aren’t perfectly flat. These machines adjust focus dynamically, keeping beam intensity consistent.

From a client’s experience in outdoor landscaping: they used our fiber laser to create custom-engraved stones⁵ for garden paths and commemorative displays. The precision of the machine helped them turn irregular basalt rocks into valuable art pieces—something manual methods couldn’t achieve efficiently.

What is the best laser for engraving stone?

Many people assume CO₂ lasers are the best choice because they’re common in engraving. But when it comes to durability, depth, and fine detail on hard surfaces like stone, fiber lasers often outperform.

Fiber lasers are the best choice for engraving stone when precision, depth, and durability are important. They produce clean, permanent marks, especially on hard stones like granite and marble.

Comparing CO₂ and Fiber Lasers

Let’s look at how each performs:

While CO₂ lasers can work for softer stones or surface-level etching, fiber lasers provide better depth and permanence. They are especially effective for projects that require durability and long-term outdoor exposure.

At Kirin Laser, our fiber laser marking machines are built for high-power applications. Our 30W–100W models can handle a wide range of materials. And with adjustable parameters, customers can fine-tune settings to match different stone types.

Our client in the memorial industry told us they initially used a CO₂ machine. But it couldn’t deliver the depth they wanted. Once they switched to a 50W fiber laser from us, their engravings became deeper, sharper, and more resistant to weather.

What can I use to engrave a stone?

There are many tools out there: chisels, diamond drills, even acid etching. But each of these has limits. Laser engraving stands out because it’s fast, contact-free, and repeatable. Still, the question is: what tools or setups actually work for stone?

To engrave stone, you can use a fiber laser marking machine. These machines offer speed, precision, and the ability to engrave a wide range of stones without physical contact.

Options for Stone Engraving

Here’s how different tools compare:

If your goal is production-level output with clean, high-contrast results, fiber laser⁸s are the best choice. They reduce labor, eliminate tool wear, and provide consistent quality—even with batch production.

One of our OEM partners needed a solution for customizing stone coasters in large quantities. They used our 30W fiber laser to engrave logos on slate and granite. The results were crisp and repeatable—perfect for export. Because fiber lasers don’t physically touch the surface, there’s less risk of damaging the stone during processing.

Conclusion

Laser engraving stone ⁹ is not only possible—it’s practical and powerful with the right equipment. Fiber laser marking machines, especially those from Kirin Laser, can engrave stones like granite and marble with clarity and precision. With proper settings, even rough rocks become beautiful canvases. From small logos to deep memorial engravings, fiber lasers offer clean, permanent results. For any business considering stone engraving, investing in a fiber laser opens new creative and commercial possibilities.