Wednesday, 14 August 2013

Engraving Your Photographs in Crystal

There is a wide range of high quality souvenirs and keepsakes to choose from when it comes to gift giving for friends, family or employees. You could consider handcrafted pottery items, glass vases or paperweights, however, if you're really keen to symbolise your everlasting appreciation you may be interested in items utilising photographic 3D crystal engraving.

A Photographic Revolution

In previous times, people liked to showcase their special photographs in highly decorative albums. They could store the collections away and look through them at opportune moments. However, since the development of the Internet and the establishment of social networks, people have shown a greater desire to share their photographs with a wider audience. It's now possible to view thousands of high quality photographs on websites such as Facebook and Flickr.

Considering Your Options

It's a real advantage to have access to this extensive assortment of online images - though you must always be mindful of copyright infringements. You may find pictures of adorable animals, beautiful landscapes or shared moments with your friends. You could perhaps download these pictures (with permission) and have them framed, but alternatively you could take them along to a professional who specialises in 3D crystal engraving.

Essential Information

By this point you may well be wondering about the general process of 3D crystal engraving. Unfortunately it would require a complex and ultimately mind numbing technical article to outline the procedure from start to finish. However, it basically involves converting the details of an object or image into a specific computer format. The information is used to guide a laser, which transfers a series of minuscule dots on to a piece of crystal. These combine to form a representation of your chosen image. You can find out more by visiting specialised websites.

Pricing Your Presents

While it may sound expensive, you may be interested to learn that there is some variability in the pricing of items utilising 3D crystal engraving. If you're wanting a basic black and white photograph to be transferred then you can expect to pay anywhere between £10 and £40. However, those looking for elaborate designs should be prepared to pay up to £150. The investment will be well worth it when you see the look on the face of the recipient. They'll be undoubtedly happy to receive a gift that has clearly been the subject of thought.

Alternative Crystal Gifts

There are bound to be some people who struggle to find the right photographs or simply don't like the idea of crystallised pictures. It's for this reason that the leading 3D crystal engraving experts offer alternative products such as key chains, wine stoppers and necklace pendants. Such items make absolutely wonderful gifts and they'll never lose their special appeal.

George Berdichevsky is the Founder of 3Design Center, which designs image files to be used in 3D crystal engraving machines. His team of talented artists can create bespoke images for 3D crystal engravings from any idea or image. Visit the website for more information.