Two initials are merged so each be read from different angles in this 3D-printed metal jewellery (+ slideshow).

Design agency Ultravirgo's Mymo service creates 3D monograms by digitally combining any two letters or numbers. "From the front, you see one character," said the designers. "From the side, you see the other." The monograms can be 3D-printed as small charms by New York company Shapeways.

Traditionally embroidered on clothing, a monogram is a 2D graphic combining two or more letters to form a logo. Mymo transforms these motifs into a 3D form, to be printed in stainless steel, silver or ceramic.

The steel and ceramic pieces are printed by gluing layers of the powdered materials on top of each other, while the silver designs are cast in a 3D-printed wax mould.

The pendants can be worn as a necklace, linked to a keychain or displayed as an ornament. The Mymo typeface was designed by Ultravirgo founder Patrick Durgin-Bruce.

Here is some more information from the designer:

Mymo reinvents the monogram with 3D-printed typography

Introducing Mymo. A modern, clever monogram that combines any two letters or numbers into a custom typographic sculpture for necklaces, keychains, and ornaments (to start). From the front, you see one character. From the side, you see the other.

Monograms used to be a badge of honor, embroidered on work shirts, towels, and stationery. But with their florid Victorian style and the move to mass production, they were left behind as an ephemeral fashion trend. But we love the concept of letters that carry personal meaning, so we've re-invented them.

Twitter may allow 140 characters, but a Mymo makes a statement with just two. We challenge people to decide what two letters or numbers best represent them. Initials? Kids' initials? The dogs'? Age? Football jersey number? Birthday date? They make the perfect gift for weddings, graduations, housewarmings, holidays, wedding attendant gifts, new babies, mothers, fathers, and just because – allowing anyone to give a gift with personal meaning without needing to know too much about the recipient.

Mymo uses Shapeways to 3D print each item individually on-demand. The finished Mymos are made of sterling silver, stainless steel, or food-grade ceramic. Mymo makes 3D-printed objects more accessible to the public, combining great design with personalisation – without customers needing to learn how to use 3D software.

The Mymo type was designed by Patrick Durgin-Bruce of Ultravirgo, an award-winning graphic design agency in New York City with a penchant for typography. He has also created custom type for the United Nations and the University of Pennsylvania. New typefaces by other designers are in the works for 2014.