3D crystal engraving entails engraving complex images inside glass crystal shapes using advanced photo imaging and laser technology. Many people buy these crystals as keepsakes, looking for images of their favorite animal, praying hands, or angels, among other things. Others seek out companies that provide custom 3D crystal engraving. This option allows customers to have an image of their choice engraved inside a crystal piece, such as a photo or portrait. Because the engraving isn’t as easily damaged as a photograph, these items often make lovely keepsakes.
Capturing some kind of image is usually the first step in 3D crystal engraving. Tourist collectibles might feature iconic images of the Statue of Liberty or the Philadelphia skyline, for example. Other businesses are more likely to accept a photograph taken by the customer. These photos can feature a single figure, such as a pet, or a group of figures, such as a family photo. The engraving process is usually more expensive as the picture gets larger. Larger photos necessitate larger crystals and more engraving time.
The photo is then scanned by engraving software and uploaded into a machine that projects the image as millions of tiny points onto a crystal shape. The laser is told where to engrave by these points, which are referred to as point clouds. The laser shines through the crystal, causing tiny fractures beneath the shape’s surface. Lighter shading areas are represented by denser clusters of fractures, while darker shading areas are represented by sparser clusters. Rather than colored images, most 3D crystal engraving processes produce black and white images.
When the customer is finished, he or she can place the crystal in front of a small LED light. Crystal pedestals with lights built in are also available from some companies. White, blue, pink, or green lights may be used. Some lights also change color after they are turned on, fading from one to the next. Those who want to go all out can find lighted pedestals that rotate the crystals, allowing the customer to see the image from various angles.
3D crystal engraving crystals come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The simple cube is one of the most popular shapes because many pictures fit into it easily and it is usually not very expensive. Rectangles that are tall and squat are also popular. Diamond-shaped and cylindrical crystals are also available, but they’re more difficult to come by and usually more expensive. Simple, square edges or faceted corners that catch the light can be found on these crystals. Although faceting adds a small amount to the price, some customers believe it also adds a touch of elegance.