These Awards come in Presentation Boxes. Sandblast etching is included. Quantity Discounts

The difference between crystal  and glass

Glass is a generic name, while crystal is a subcategory of glass. Crystal is made in the same manner as glass but with different materials. However, that is not the official difference between them. There is no official clear cut definition of crystal glass. Still, the general rule is that crystal is a type of glass containing varying lead and other mineral levels.

Why Does Crystal Glass Glint?

The two articles below will give a good insight. When the light 'bends' due to the altered glass composition, the refraction will cause some breakup. Hence the glass"Glints". However, the glint and clarity will not happen without the addition of zinc and lead. Even though a crystal glass colour trophy has added tones, it will still glint under the right light conditions.

Sandblasting logos and text

Sandblasting is now a popular and reliable way to produce information on glass.  Creating a mask from artwork produced on a computer with a logo and text is better to keep costs down. This way, the customer can check the wording, logo and layout before sandblasting the glass or crystal surface. The majority of our engraving is executed by sandblasting. We find after all the years we have been practising the technique that it delivers the best result. The actual etch lines are more delicate and thereby create excellent detail. Some logos will need this expertise.

If you like the idea of combining crystal and colour, please have a look at our glass awards with colour plates. These are very popular and inexpensive, and you may wish to combine the two styles.

Some crystal questions answered.

The difference between crystal and glass