Crystal awards are cherished symbols of achievement, recognition, and excellence. Whether they are employee recognition awards, sales trophies, or tokens of appreciation, these elegant pieces are more than just decorations—they’re lasting reminders of success and hard work. However, crystal awards require regular care and maintenance to preserve their brilliance and beauty. Without proper attention, dust, fingerprints, and scratches can diminish their luster over time.
In this guide, we’ll explore actionable tips and best practices to keep your crystal awards looking flawless. From cleaning techniques to storage solutions, this article will ensure your crystal trophies remain stunning for years to come.
Why Care for Your Crystal Awards?
The Emotional Value
Crystal awards often carry immense sentimental and professional value. They symbolize personal or organizational milestones, making them irreplaceable in the eyes of their recipients. Keeping them in pristine condition honors these moments and the people who earned them.
Preservation of Elegance
Crystal awards are prized for their clarity, brilliance, and intricate designs. Regular care ensures that these aesthetic features remain intact, maintaining the award’s polished and professional look.
Longevity and Cost Savings
Proper maintenance prevents damage and minimizes the need for costly repairs or replacements. With the right care, crystal awards can last a lifetime without losing their shine.
What Are Crystal Awards Made Of?
Before diving into cleaning and maintenance, it’s essential to understand the material. Crystal awards are typically made from optical crystal or lead crystal, both known for their clarity and brilliance:
- Optical Crystal: This high-quality material is lead-free, offering impeccable transparency and a flawless finish.
- Lead Crystal: Contains lead oxide, which enhances its refractive properties, giving it a more sparkly appearance. However, it is softer than optical crystal and more prone to scratches.
Understanding the material composition will help you choose the right cleaning techniques and products to maintain its pristine condition.
How to Clean Crystal Awards Properly
Cleaning your crystal awards involves more than just wiping them down. Follow these steps to safely remove dust, fingerprints, and smudges without causing damage.
1. Gather the Right Materials
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch or cloud the surface. Use:
- Microfiber cloths: Soft and non-abrasive for gentle cleaning.
- Distilled water: Prevents mineral deposits and streaks.
- Mild soap and Windex: Specifically designed for delicate surfaces.
2. Dusting the Award
Start by gently dusting the surface with a dry microfiber cloth. This removes loose particles that could cause scratches during cleaning.
3. Cleaning with a Solution
- Fill a bowl with warm, distilled water and add a drop of mild soap.
- Dip a clean microfiber cloth into the soapy water and gently wipe the award, focusing on smudged or dirty areas.
- For intricate designs, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reach tight corners.
4. Rinsing
Rinse the award with distilled water to remove any soap residue. Avoid using tap water, as it can leave streaks or mineral deposits.
5. Drying
Use a clean microfiber cloth to pat the award dry. Allow it to air dry for a few minutes to ensure no moisture remains in crevices and follow up by cleaning with Windex and the cloth to ensure all streaks are gone.
Tips for Storing Crystal Awards
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning when it comes to preserving the beauty of your crystal awards.
1. Keep Them in a Safe Location
- Choose a secure display case or shelf to protect the awards from accidental falls.
- Ensure the area is free from direct sunlight.
2. Avoid High Humidity
Humidity can cause condensation, which may lead to water spots or mold. Use silica gel packets in your display case to absorb excess moisture.
3. Use Soft Linings
If storing awards in a box, line it with soft fabric or foam to prevent scratches.
How to Handle Crystal Awards Safely
Even the most durable crystal awards are susceptible to damage if mishandled. Follow these guidelines to reduce the risk of accidents:
- Use Two Hands: Always hold the award with both hands, especially if it has a large or heavy base.
- Avoid Contact with Sharp Objects: Keep pens, scissors, and other sharp items away from the awards.
- Wear Gloves: When handling awards, wear cotton gloves to prevent smudges and fingerprints.Cotton gloves look best but awards can become slippery with the cotton. Consider latex gloves if you need to ensure a tight grip.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Caring for Crystal Awards
- Using Harsh Chemicals: Products with ammonia or bleach can etch the surface and dull the award’s finish.
- Scrubbing Too Hard: Excessive pressure can leave scratches, especially on lead crystal.
- Skipping Regular Maintenance: Neglecting to clean or store awards properly can lead to irreversible damage over time.
Why Choose Award Maven for Crystal Awards?
At Award Maven, we specialize in creating custom crystal awards that combine elegance, durability, and personalization. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Expert Craftsmanship: Our awards are meticulously crafted from the highest-quality optical crystal.
- Custom Designs: Tailored to reflect your organization’s values and achievements.
- Proof Generator: Visualize your award designs with our innovative Proof Generator tool, ensuring every detail is perfect before production.
- Fast Turnaround: We prioritize timely delivery without compromising on quality.
Conclusion
Crystal awards symbolize hard work, achievement, and excellence, making them invaluable to recipients and organizations alike. By following this guide, you can ensure your awards remain as brilliant and pristine as the day they were received.
Whether you need new custom crystal awards or expert advice on preserving your existing ones, Award Maven is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our award solutions!