How does a person set up a Cnc pro to engrave something round. How do you set the x,y,z?
Usually this sort of thing is done on a 4th axis — but our machines don’t support that.
For a possible work-around see:
but as you note, setting the origin will be challenging.
Usually, folks who need to do this get a laser w/ a rotary — is that an option?
Center finder
measure & mark center from 2 or more directions
I just did an 8" circular plate on Sat. I eyeballed Y0 & touched off the tool on the left edge, marked that as X0, touched off on the right, then typed in half that value. Repeat for Y with X at 0.0, then repeat again for X with Y at 0.0. I had to machine a 1/2" hole in the center. I got it less than 0.001" both in position & size. 
Your method should reflect the tolerance you’re shooting for. For decorative engraving, I think tape measure & mark center is plenty accurate.
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