FAQ's and how we work
FAQ's
How does it work?
Choose the size and shape crystal you would like to order on our crystals page. https://www.finecitycrystals.com/crystals
Send us an image you would like converted and indicate the number of people or pets required.
You can also indicate if you want any text included in the crystal and if you would like to add a light base or not.
We will do the rest.
How long will it take for my photo crystal to arrive once I have ordered it?
Our lead time is 4 to 6 working days if you have an urgent order please contact us at sales@finecitycrystals.com or call our office at 01462458902.
Please note there may be additional costs for priority orders.
Do you remove the background?
As a matter of course we remove all background, at no additional cost.,
Should you wish an item remain in the background please let us know and we will see if we can accommodate your request.
Please note that there may be additional cost for added artwork.
Do your pictures in crystal come in a gift box?
Yes, all crystals will be sent in a gift box.
Do we pay for postage.
All items are sent out Royal mail 2nd Class for delivery in the UK at no additional charge.
Please call us on 01462458902 should you have any priority mailing requirements.
How do I pay?
Online payments are facilitated by Worldpay or PayPal on secure payment portals.
All major debit and credit cards are accepted.
Why do you have the additional cost system for the amount of people/pets?
We use the add on system so as to not disadvantage customers who want fewer persons/pets converted to 3D.
Our graphic design department spend a lot more time and effort converting 4 people than they would 1 person.
Unfortunately this comes at a cost, however we believe this is the fairest way.
What is the crystal made of?
The crystal is made of K9 optically clear glass and is designed to ensure great clarity.
Is my photo suitable for engraving?
The higher the resolution of an image the better it converts to 3D
If you are unsure if your image quality is good enough, please send it through to sales@finecitycrystals.com and we will let you know if we are able to proceed.
Most photo file formats (Jpeg, png, bmp, and gif ) are all acceptable for you to send through to us.
Do you do other items other than people and pets?
Yes we do. We are able to convert and engrave things like cars, boats etc...
Please contact us to discuss special projects.
Do you do large quantities of crystals for companies
Yes we have done work with Apple, Danone and a number of other companies, as well as for Serpentine galleries and some well know British artists.
Please contact us with your specific requirements and we will send you a quote.
Can I have a number of different people from separate photos engraved into one crystal.
Yes we are able to incorporate separate pictures of people or pets into one crystal.
Please contact us with your requirements.
Can I see what the layout would look like before I buy?
Send us the image and text you would like engraved to sales@finecitycrystal.com and we will send you a screenshot of the layout (what the image would look in the crystal)
Send your digital photo to Fine City Crystals and we will create a unique, personalised 3D Photo Crystal gift (Bubblegram) for you, by converting your chosen image into 3D, and then laser etch your 3D photograph inside the crystal.
Sending Us Your Image
For online customers, simply choose your crystal in our shop section. You can upload your image from your device with the choose file button or after checkout return to any page on this website and click on the file-upload link at the bottom of the page to upload your image. We will then get to work on producing your wonderful 3D bespoke crystal. Images can be uploaded from a variety of devices including PC/MAC, mobile phone, IPad/Tablet and digital camera. To see the best results please send your image at the highest possible resolution, the 3D laser image can only be as good as the digital image you supply. For more information and advice on images to use, head to our terms and conditions page.
For those of our customers who prefer to visit us here at our studio in Hitchin, we have our own 3D camera to create an image for you that can be sent directly to our laser engraver rather than uploading an existing digital print. We can also scan any of your prints in the studio too. Please note that visits to the studio are by appointment only so please contact us beforehand to arrange your visit.
So how does it all work?
Using our cutting edge technology we will convert your 2D digital photographs into stunning engraved crystals. Using our highly sophisticated computer software program, we'll take the digital print of your choice and transform it into a 3D version, merging it with the original image to maximise the fine detail.
We then use specialist laser technology which engraves points inside the crystal, a process called 'Sub-Surface' laser engraving. Once the laser hits the correct spot and distance within the crystal, a powerful laser pulse makes a very small void in the crystal. This process is repeated, etching point after point until you are left with a 3D image created from thousands of these points using a range of powers and distances. This 'Sub-Surface' engraving process ensures that there is no deterioration or fading in the future so our images last for life, preserved forever within the crystal.
Once finished your bespoke crystal will be presented to you in a gift box, and will be sent by UK delivery at no extra cost which takes between 3 and 7 working days (total 5-12 days from order to delivery). Your personalised crystal is made to your specification, so for any special requests just get in touch.
