A spark ignition device, ground electrode therefor, and methods of construction thereof are provided. The spark ignition device includes a generally annular ceramic insulator with a metal shell surrounding at least a portion of the ceramic insulator. A center electrode is received at least in part in the ceramic insulator and a ground electrode extends from the shell to a free end portion. A firing tip is attached adjacent the free end portion of the ground electrode to provide a spark gap between the center electrode and the firing tip. The free end portion is at least partially bounded by at least one “as laser cut” peripheral side extending adjacent the firing tip.