How Crystal Gifts are Engraved

Glass and crystal engraving is a thorough and meticulous task. Because of the delicate nature of the materials being processed, extreme care should be taken, regardless of the technique being used. This contributes largely to the value and beauty of finished engraved crystals.

Crystal engravings are innately stunning. They are often seen on wine glasses and champagne flutes and other delicate crystal items. Glass etching is popular for decorative as well as for commemorative purposes, such as for commissioning corporate and event giveaways for weddings and the like. While traditional techniques like sandblasting are still used until now, many businesses that specialize in glass and crystal engraving now use CO2 laser engraving, which is a far quicker and more convenient alternative.

Glass is such a delicate material, but with the right tools, it can be quite easy to work with. Everyday glassware is naturally easier to work with than lead-rich crystal. Because of its high lead content, crystal retains heat too well, which makes markings expand or have a distorted look. CO2 laser engraving causes the surface to heat up as the laser beam blasts glass particles away. Less delicate glass types are able to cool down quicker than crystal, which makes them retain designs more finely, although the right technique can also make crystal engravings finer.

Determining the perfect speed and power settings on the laser is critical so that the machine can produce the perfect look that you expect. Adjusting the settings to fit the material in question is also important to make sure designs are not ruined and avoid second passes, which can make the engraving look rough. The more times, the same design is run on the glass or on the crystal, the more blurry the piece will become.

It is also crucial to maintain the machine at optimal temperature, to make sure that the glass or crystal is not broken or fractured during the process. A good way to avoid fractures is to wet the surface prior to starting the engraving process. This also produces a frosted effect, which many people look for in engraved glass. There are different kinds of moistening agents that can be used to make sure that the surface is kept damp while doing the engraving, but others also use masking materials, which pretty much produce the same frosted effect.

Increasing proficiency and skill in engraving crystal and glass is important if you want to produce finer results.

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Personalised Crystal supply the very best in personalised crystal and engraved glass gifts that will make simply stunning gifts for your loved ones for all occasions. Their crystal gifts have been specially selected so you can be sure whatever gift you choose it will be of the highest quality and comes beautifully presented in gift boxes with standard quality personalized engraving.

Personalised Crystal is an online store where you can buy personalised crystal and engraved glass gifts for all occasions for your friends, colleagues and your loved ones.