Crystal engraved awards can lead the consumer to a multitude of choice selections to be made. The crystals themselves have two distinct classes that consist of leaded or optical types. Leaded crystals are the traditional pieces that we see in high end shops. Optical crystals are made one hundred percent lead free and present with a high luster surface finish.
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.
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.
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.
A very labor intensive method is known as wheel engraving. This is by far the most difficult method to learn for artists and takes years of practice to become a master. There are different sizes of wheel that are used and they are stationary while the piece of glass is moved to create the image. This technique is still used today but only for small high end markets.
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.
Lasers are the newest means of engraving available. With this method a laser beam is directed at the surface of the item and through a multitude of dots creates the desired image. Many feel that it does not do a satisfactory job on leaded crystal surfaces. They feel that the laser damages the surface because of the intense heat it creates. Amazingly, they can be used to create an image inside of an article without any surface disturbance.
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.
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.
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.
A very labor intensive method is known as wheel engraving. This is by far the most difficult method to learn for artists and takes years of practice to become a master. There are different sizes of wheel that are used and they are stationary while the piece of glass is moved to create the image. This technique is still used today but only for small high end markets.
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.
Lasers are the newest means of engraving available. With this method a laser beam is directed at the surface of the item and through a multitude of dots creates the desired image. Many feel that it does not do a satisfactory job on leaded crystal surfaces. They feel that the laser damages the surface because of the intense heat it creates. Amazingly, they can be used to create an image inside of an article without any surface disturbance.
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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