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 made by adding over twenty percent lead oxide to the process. The leaded oxide ensures that the optimum color, weight and hardness will be present in the finished product. This process also enhances the clarity of the crystals when the items are completed.
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.
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.
For the frugal shopper laser etching may be the best choice for the crystal engraved awards you need. Technique and materials can make a big difference when making your selections and the size of your order should have bearing when choosing. The wide variety of choices will help to make your selection fit perfectly to your needs.
Leaded crystals are made by adding over twenty percent lead oxide to the process. The leaded oxide ensures that the optimum color, weight and hardness will be present in the finished product. This process also enhances the clarity of the crystals when the items are completed.
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.
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.
For the frugal shopper laser etching may be the best choice for the crystal engraved awards you need. Technique and materials can make a big difference when making your selections and the size of your order should have bearing when choosing. The wide variety of choices will help to make your selection fit perfectly to your needs.
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