Crystal trophies come in various shapes, sizes and materials. You will surely not run out of choices for every kind of event that you have. You can choose a simple plate with engraving or a customized art glass with your company colors.

To know which one you should select for your particular awardees or events, here are the different versions of this kind of trophy and some suggestions on how each can be appropriate for your awards or occasions.

Trophies made of 24% lead crystal are valued highly, because 24% lead is the perfect percentage for crystals to have the clarity and brilliance that people seek. This is why this type of crystal trophies is a popular choice and would be great to symbolize excellence in any field. It is a nice touch for the most prestigious award in a certain event.

If you want a lead-free type, though, optical or optic crystal would be your best choice. This material comes in sheets of about 3 inches thick and undergoes a tedious manufacturing procedure that involves application of heavy pressure to ensure that the final product comes out clean - without any bubbles or other distortions. Since it does not contain any amount of lead, its dominant quality is its hardness, which makes it an ideal material for making accurate bevels. While it is commonly used in industries as lenses for cameras, binoculars and other similar gadgets, optic crystal and its flawlessness are suitable symbols for recognizing individuals who have earned perfect scores or the highest marks in their performance of tough tasks.

If you want a more updated look to your optic crystal trophies, you might want to check out its black optic crystal version. It has the same flawless quality of regular optic crystal, but with the addition of iron oxide, copper oxide, manganese dioxide and cobalt oxide, which are the elements that make the material turn to black. Some manufacturers incorporate chrome details in a black optic crystal trophy to make a unique and elegant design that is fit for an awardee or a recognized individual that has achieved considerably for an organization.

Starfire crystal is lead-free and low in iron. Trophies of this material, although displaying a slightly blue tint, are considered the best quality crystal awards with their finely beveled edges.