Is 3D Subsurface Laser Engraving Right for You?

There is a specific type of laser engraving that works well for crystal called 3D subsurface laser engraving. A computer is programmed to control a laser that hits the crystal at a particular size, depth, and location to produce a micro-fracture inside the crystal. The laser continues to produce millions of dot-like fractures inside the crystal that ultimately become a three-dimensional image that can be viewed from all sides. Flexibility is the primary advantage to 3D subsurface laser engraving. Truly any image can be re-created. And, of course, customers think this is pretty cool.

On the flip side, the primary disadvantage to 3D subsurface laser engraving is the high cost of the machinery and an expertly trained person to operate the machine. This reliable person will become an expert on the 3D machine itself, the software it requires, as well as the software needed to create the art file(s). It can take hours to re-create a one-dimensional image from scratch using 3D software. If you can purchase a 3D machine, you can outsource creating the art files if needed.

If you don’t want to own and operate a 3D subsurface laser engraving machine, you can still create 3D crystal awards and gifts. Simply contract with one of the production facilities in the United States. This allows for a faster production time and lower freight cost in comparison to overseas manufacturers.