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.
Leaded crystals are created by adding lead oxide to the glass formula. The lead component is generally around twenty four percent for optimum color, weight and hardness. This number also ensures the clarity of the glass will remain at optimum levels. They are highly valued and many become family treasures that are passed down for generations.
The optical crystals are created with absolutely no lead added in sheets approximately three inches thick. Known for the hardness and brilliance these crystals contain they are often used to make camera lenses and binoculars. The hardness also ensures perfection while cutting and beveling. As a molten sheet they receive a highly pressurized treatment to remove all bubbles that may occur in processing or other flaws that may be present.
Engraving techniques for these crystals are identical. The most often used is sand blasting. This method consists of using a high pressure tool that shoots particles of sand onto the surface of glass to create the desired design. Most artists who use this technique also use stencils to help prevent errors. Sand etching can turn out very delicate images that highlight the intricacies of the original design. A relative new comer in the field, sand etching has only been around for the past twenty years.
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.
The down side to chemical etching is the noxious fumes that come from the acid that is used on the glass. Never the less, people find acid etching to be smoother and softer than the other techniques. It presents with a soft matte finish that has an overall glossy satin finish to it. Most artists do not use this system because of the dangers it poses to their health.
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.
The cost of crystal engraved awards can vary greatly dependant on the technique your artist uses. If you choose optical materials the laser is more economical for large numbers of items. For smaller orders leaded crystals and sand etching may be your first choice.
Leaded crystals are created by adding lead oxide to the glass formula. The lead component is generally around twenty four percent for optimum color, weight and hardness. This number also ensures the clarity of the glass will remain at optimum levels. They are highly valued and many become family treasures that are passed down for generations.
The optical crystals are created with absolutely no lead added in sheets approximately three inches thick. Known for the hardness and brilliance these crystals contain they are often used to make camera lenses and binoculars. The hardness also ensures perfection while cutting and beveling. As a molten sheet they receive a highly pressurized treatment to remove all bubbles that may occur in processing or other flaws that may be present.
Engraving techniques for these crystals are identical. The most often used is sand blasting. This method consists of using a high pressure tool that shoots particles of sand onto the surface of glass to create the desired design. Most artists who use this technique also use stencils to help prevent errors. Sand etching can turn out very delicate images that highlight the intricacies of the original design. A relative new comer in the field, sand etching has only been around for the past twenty years.
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.
The down side to chemical etching is the noxious fumes that come from the acid that is used on the glass. Never the less, people find acid etching to be smoother and softer than the other techniques. It presents with a soft matte finish that has an overall glossy satin finish to it. Most artists do not use this system because of the dangers it poses to their health.
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.
The cost of crystal engraved awards can vary greatly dependant on the technique your artist uses. If you choose optical materials the laser is more economical for large numbers of items. For smaller orders leaded crystals and sand etching may be your first choice.
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