Artwork Requirements

To create an exceptional crystal award, we ask that you send us the best quality image files you have. This means that any images or logos should be sent in a clean vector format as opposed to a bitmap format. What’s the difference you ask?

Vector Graphics are defined by mathematical equations rather than pixels, so they always appear at the highest resolution. They are also scalable which means that they can be increased or decreased in size and their lines will remain crisp and sharp. Vector graphics are used most often for print artwork. Vector art files usually end with .eps, .ai or .cdr.

Bitmap Graphics are composed of little squares called pixels. When you enlarge these images, the software must guess where to put the extra pixels necessary to make it larger. The result is often an image that is slightly “fuzzy” and difficult to engrave. Bitmap images include all photographs and are used most often in web design and screen based artwork. Bitmap files usually end with .bmp, .jpg, .gif, or .tif.

Bitmap Graphics Vector Graphics
This enlargement of a bitmap image shows how a bitmap image is made up of little blocks. This enlargement of a vector image shows how the lines remain straight and crisp at any size.

In many companies, vector artwork for the logo and other elements are often available in the Marketing or Advertising department, since vector artwork is often a necessary component of print advertising.

Clean graphics are an important element/requirement for a good finished product. Please let us know if you have any questions.