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I recently read this post on Evilmadscientist which describes using molybdenum disulfide as a laser marking compound for stainless steel. The original referenced source is this forum posting at Sawmillcreek (registration required).
The idea is that you spray the surface with molybdenum disulfide spray, let it dry, then laser-engrave it and remove the excess with acetone. I used two or three coats and dried them using a hotplate. I tested it on both stainless steel sheet and ceramic tile - the results were quite good. The mark isn't very black, but it does appear permanent.
 The spray I used |
 Coated stainless steel and tile |
 Tile after various test engravings |
 After washing the excess off with acetone |
 This is what engraving a plain tile looks like - not very impressive |
 Comparison of the coated tile with a plain one |
 Some line engravings |
 Getting really carried away! |
 Stainless steel |
 After cleaning - the markings really show up in reflected light |
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