The Material:  The process begins with high-quality, optically-pure glass that is melted down and mixed with Lead (Pb).  After a thermal process blends the two together, the mixture is cooled to form a substance commonly known as Crystal.  This crystal (whose surface is of the same quality used in precision optical instruments) is then cut, grinded, and polished into flawless pieces of optically clear blocks.

Designing The Image: The design process for each 3D Laser Crystal piece can take up to several weeks.  After gathering photos, models, and other representations researched by the artist, conceptual pencil drawings are then created to show what the design or image will look like when it’s done.   Each one is thoroughly reviewed with multiple changes suggested.  Many designs never reach the creation process.  Once a design concept is accepted, the designer uses sophisticated CAD (computer-assisted drafting) software to create a true 3 dimensional (3D) image in “dot” format from the accepted drawing.  This design process typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for each dot to be placed in its correct oriented position by hand.  Once completed, the image is saved.

The Laser Process:  To create the image of their artistic vision, the designer uses the CAD software in conjunction with a scientific class laser.  This technology was first invented and developed in Russia.  Materials such as glass, crystal, or diamond are transparent because they allow normal light waves to pass through them.  However, when the designer uses a laser beam (a concentrated beam of light the thickness of a human hair), it is focused inside the crystal block using a very fine lens.  As the laser beam is used in tiny spurts or “pulses”, the material begins to absorb the energy of each laser pulse.  At the precise desired point (the focal point), it’s molecular structure changes forming a mirror-like “bubble” or dot that refracts light in all directions.

          The manufacturing process involves a movable platform that positions the crystal block along 3 axes in relation to the laser beam.  The crystal moves side to side, forward and back, and up and down.   Following a pre-programmed precise sequence using the artist’s saved image, 10’s of thousands of tiny bubbles form an exquisite design within the crystal that appears to float in space!    The laser is non-invasive so it leaves no marks, scratches, or blemishes to mar the surface of the crystal.  Any light that shines through is refracted in thousands of directions creating a dramatic image presentation!