There are two different types of crystals to choose from when you consider having crystal engraved awards created by experts. The traditional leaded crystal is the most well known and highly regarded for its quality and value. Another type is the optical crystals which are lead free and display a highly visible reflective surface.
The traditional leaded crystals are generally highly regarded and treasured by the owners of them. Some become heirlooms that are considered priceless to families that have them. What makes them so special is the effect that adding lead to the glass formula has. It creates absolute clarity along with the expected color and weight.
On the other hand optical crystals have no lead in them. The glass is manufactured in three inch thick sheets and is known for the brilliant appearance that comes after they are polished. All optical crystals are beveled and polished prior to distribution. The manufacturer also removes all flaws from the sheet while it is still a molten liquid by applying tremendous pressure on the surface. This process squeezes out any bubbles or ripples that may occur.
Both types of crystals can be engraved with the same techniques. There are several popular and effective methods of doing this. By far the most popular method for engraving is sand blasting. This technique uses thousands of tiny sand particles directed at the desired design at very high pressure. Most artists will use a stencil to guide the work being done. The result is an intricate and delicate image that demands attention. Sand etching has been in use for over twenty years and gives smooth uniform cuts that have a very high class look.
Wheel engraving is another form of glass etching. This type of cutting is very labor intensive and demands high levels of training for the artist. It is the most difficult technique to master and is confined to small scale projects that inhabit the high-end markets. The artists who master this technique are truly dedicated to their trade. The wheels used are stationary and the glass is moved making this a most difficult task to learn.
Chemical etching is less labor intensive but because of the acid that is used can be very dangerous. That being said the result of acid etching is softer and more pleasing to the eye than other techniques. It has a soft matte finish with a uniform satiny gloss finish. This technique is rarely used today except on very small specific projects.
Laser engraving is a popular system that some say is a shortcut in production. Laser etching directs high precision lasers to mark leaded and synthetic crystals. They are unique because they can create the image inside a cube of glass without disturbing the surface of the cube. Many masters say that laser etching creates cracks in the crystals that you are working on and that the work is inferior compared to other techniques.
There are several techniques that can be used to create crystal engraved awards. The method you choose may also determine the amount you will spend on it. The two most used styles are also most likely the two most affordable for consumers.
The traditional leaded crystals are generally highly regarded and treasured by the owners of them. Some become heirlooms that are considered priceless to families that have them. What makes them so special is the effect that adding lead to the glass formula has. It creates absolute clarity along with the expected color and weight.
On the other hand optical crystals have no lead in them. The glass is manufactured in three inch thick sheets and is known for the brilliant appearance that comes after they are polished. All optical crystals are beveled and polished prior to distribution. The manufacturer also removes all flaws from the sheet while it is still a molten liquid by applying tremendous pressure on the surface. This process squeezes out any bubbles or ripples that may occur.
Both types of crystals can be engraved with the same techniques. There are several popular and effective methods of doing this. By far the most popular method for engraving is sand blasting. This technique uses thousands of tiny sand particles directed at the desired design at very high pressure. Most artists will use a stencil to guide the work being done. The result is an intricate and delicate image that demands attention. Sand etching has been in use for over twenty years and gives smooth uniform cuts that have a very high class look.
Wheel engraving is another form of glass etching. This type of cutting is very labor intensive and demands high levels of training for the artist. It is the most difficult technique to master and is confined to small scale projects that inhabit the high-end markets. The artists who master this technique are truly dedicated to their trade. The wheels used are stationary and the glass is moved making this a most difficult task to learn.
Chemical etching is less labor intensive but because of the acid that is used can be very dangerous. That being said the result of acid etching is softer and more pleasing to the eye than other techniques. It has a soft matte finish with a uniform satiny gloss finish. This technique is rarely used today except on very small specific projects.
Laser engraving is a popular system that some say is a shortcut in production. Laser etching directs high precision lasers to mark leaded and synthetic crystals. They are unique because they can create the image inside a cube of glass without disturbing the surface of the cube. Many masters say that laser etching creates cracks in the crystals that you are working on and that the work is inferior compared to other techniques.
There are several techniques that can be used to create crystal engraved awards. The method you choose may also determine the amount you will spend on it. The two most used styles are also most likely the two most affordable for consumers.
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