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 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.
Optical crystals are lead free and created in large sheets up to three inches thick. They are extremely hard and will cut and bevel perfectly. They also contain a high level of brilliance when polished. While still molten the liquid is subjected to extreme pressure to remove all bubbles and flaws that may occur in processing. These crystals are often used in camera lenses and binoculars because of their flawless quality.
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.
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.
Optical crystals are lead free and created in large sheets up to three inches thick. They are extremely hard and will cut and bevel perfectly. They also contain a high level of brilliance when polished. While still molten the liquid is subjected to extreme pressure to remove all bubbles and flaws that may occur in processing. These crystals are often used in camera lenses and binoculars because of their flawless quality.
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.
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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