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.
There are four separate styles of etching that can be done on both types of crystal. The most well known and widely used is sand etching. This technique involves directing thousands of sand particles at the stenciled glass under very high pressure. The resulting image is a concise and delicate image that results from smooth, precision cuts. This has been a favored method by master craftsmen for over 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.
Another technique that is disappearing is chemical, or acid, etching. The fumes from the acid used have proven to be very dangerous to the health of workers who use it. The end result of this technique is thought by many to be far more satisfactory to the trained and untrained eye. The edges are softer and the finish has a hazy matte gloss that cannot be accomplished otherwise. Few craftsmen use this method of etching today.
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.
There are four separate styles of etching that can be done on both types of crystal. The most well known and widely used is sand etching. This technique involves directing thousands of sand particles at the stenciled glass under very high pressure. The resulting image is a concise and delicate image that results from smooth, precision cuts. This has been a favored method by master craftsmen for over 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.
Another technique that is disappearing is chemical, or acid, etching. The fumes from the acid used have proven to be very dangerous to the health of workers who use it. The end result of this technique is thought by many to be far more satisfactory to the trained and untrained eye. The edges are softer and the finish has a hazy matte gloss that cannot be accomplished otherwise. Few craftsmen use this method of etching today.
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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