Strong and Free: A 60th Birthday Glass With Meaning

Some engravings stay with you - not just for their design, but for the story they carry.
A few weeks ago, we were approached to create a birthday gift for a man turning sixty. His friend wanted something deeply personal, not flashy or showy, but thoughtful and lasting - a glass that would honour the things that meant the most to him.

She chose one of our mineral water glasses - a delicate, stemmed glass that lends itself beautifully to quiet designs. Over a few short messages, the elements of the engraving came together.

On one side: Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales.
On the other: a pair of well-worn walking boots - the kind that speak of countless journeys.
 And eengraved underneath, in clean, understated type:
 FORTIS ET LIBER - Strong and Free.

We engraved each element by hand using traditional sandblasting techniques, carefully spacing the artwork to give it balance and rhythm. It’s a quiet piece, but it carries weight - the kind of gift that speaks without shouting.

When the glass arrived, we received this message in return:

“Absolutely beautiful!
I wanted a special gift for a friend’s 60th Birthday, that was engraved with all the things that were meaningful to him.
After sending through my thoughts, this very special glass was designed.
And it did not disappoint on arrival. Super quick delivery and the gift was so very much loved.
Thank you so much - I couldn’t recommend this company any higher.”

We’re grateful for every commission that comes through the studio, but especially the ones where someone places their trust in us to help say something that matters.

Engraved slowly, made to last - and made with meaning.