I'm looking to obtain a small batch of personal business cards for a
decent price. Material must be made of etched/engraved quartz (colored
would be nice) or a similar crystal. No glass. Must be standard
business card dimensions with the exception of thickness. Thickness
doesn't matter as much as long as it's not outrageous (remember, this
is for a business card).
Company contact information (phone, web, etc) will be needed.
Quotes would
be a plus. |
Request for Question Clarification by
jackburton-ga
on
28 Feb 2003 17:54 PST
hi conditionone,
I have found a company that can perform this service using 'optic
grade crystal'.
Here is an example:
http://www.crystal-specials.com/03_readytobuy/images/890598a.jpg
------------------------------------------------------
"The creative process starts with your image or idea. You can supply
us with a photograph, logo or a description of what you'd like to
create.We can duplicate and enhance your image, or create an exact
replica. Or, why not feature your logo or message with one of our many
standard designs? And together, we'll decide which shape and size is
appropriate. Our talented staff of graphic artists will then translate
your image or idea into a three-dimensional drawing for you to
approve. The next step is to make a prototype of the sculpted image
that you can view from all angles. Upon your approval, we'll begin
production of your custom Crystal Impression"
"How we create these exquisite pieces is almost as interesting as the
finished product itself. It is a truly unique process where computer
directed laser beams are fired into blocks of optic grade crystal to
create sculptures - without affecting the outer surface. The resulting
3D art gives a beautiful "floating in space" effect to even the most
simple designs. Optic grade crystal is a must because only the purest,
unblemished, most perfect crystal is capable of assuring perfect
results by not deflecting the laser beams. Crystal Impressions is
proud to introduce this revolutionary new art form and is dedicated to
its continued development. In fact, our technology has advanced to the
point where our creations cannot be found anywhere else in the world."
http://www.crystal-specials.com/01_introduction/intro.html
------------------------------------------------------
Company: "Crystal Specials"
Westeinde 24a
Moordrecht
The Netherlands
P.O. Box 112
NL-2840 AC Moordrecht
The Netherlands
Telephone +31(0)182 379951
Fax +31(0)182 372068
E-mail: info@crystal-specials.com
http://www.crystal-specials.com
------------------------------------------------------
Quotes would depend on the type of engraving you choose, quantity
required etc
For more information on engraving, click here:
http://www.crystal-specials.com/01_introduction/02_inputrequirements.html
http://www.crystal-specials.com/01_introduction/03_2d3d.html
------------------------------------------------------
Let me know if this is what you're after.
thanks.
|
Clarification of Question by
conditionone-ga
on
28 Feb 2003 21:51 PST
No, that's more like a block of crystal. I'm looking for a quartz
version of a business card that I can hand out to
friends/associates that can fit in their wallet. Whether they break it
or not isn't my problem :) Tough question huh?
I've been trying to find a company that can do that for the last 3
days...
|
Request for Question Clarification by
jackburton-ga
on
01 Mar 2003 05:10 PST
no, i didnt think so. Are you looking for a company that will *also*
do the etching work? or are you just after a batch of
business-card-shaped quartz?? Please can you also let me know how many
you would like (approx), and which country you are based in. Then i
can make enquiries, and see if i can get an accurate quote for you.
|
Clarification of Question by
conditionone-ga
on
01 Mar 2003 08:04 PST
I'm just looking for a company that will be able to do a run of
business card shaped quartz (transparent ideally). I don't care if
they acid etch or engrave it as long as the print is clearly readable.
So I guess the company would have to embed some (white?) ink
into the etching as well. Kind of like how they do it with writing on
granite. I'm based in the U.S. and am looking for a small run
of 100-250 cards. If the company can send a sample, that would be a
big plus. Thanks for your help!
|
Request for Question Clarification by
jackburton-ga
on
01 Mar 2003 09:23 PST
RIGHT -- so you do want the company to *also* do the etching/engraving
for you as well (?). I may be able to find a source who can provide
you with thin rectangular-shaped crystal like a business card, though
i am not sure whether they'll be able to do the etching/engraving as
well. I'll have to enquire about this. if not, would you be satisfied
with just the crystal, or do *absolutely* need the company to also do
the etching/engraving work for you as well. I just want to be "crystal
clear" about your needs !
|
Clarification of Question by
conditionone-ga
on
01 Mar 2003 10:23 PST
Har har. It would be nice if the company could supply both the colored
quartz and do the engraving from a standard business
card template (just text, no pictures). That way, it'll just be a one
shop process as we can determine the smallest thickness
needed in order to do the engraving. If you can only find the blanks,
then we'd have to find somebody who can engrave it
given the dimensions. If we have to go through two suppliers, I'd be
willing to tack on an extra fee for you (assuming you
can interface with both to make sure that it's possible). Thanks
again.
|
Request for Question Clarification by
jackburton-ga
on
01 Mar 2003 13:27 PST
hi again, conditionone,
I've received the following response from one supplier:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I can supply the quartz sections @ $49 per section for minimum of 100
pcs. 1/8" x 2" x 3". Quartz would break very quickly if you actually
put into a wallet that was then put into a pants pocket and flexed,
even in thicker sections. Quartz is brittle. Laser etching your info
onto each card would cost $45 per card with a onetime setup fee of
$250."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Let me know if these figures are agreeable, and I will enquire further
about colors and samples. I have also received another favourable
response from another supplier, but they will get back to me on Monday
with more detail.
|
Clarification of Question by
conditionone-ga
on
01 Mar 2003 14:38 PST
Whoah, that's a lot of money. Is that $49 for EACH quartz piece or $49
for 100 pieces? Also, the etching fee per card
seems steep. If that was the case, then it would be $94 per card! A
bit out of my price range there :) Please let me know
what the other supplier says and we can go from there. Thanks.
|
Request for Question Clarification by
tutuzdad-ga
on
01 Mar 2003 17:30 PST
Dear conditionone-ga:
I have also been working on your question in the background. If your
researcher is not able to find what you are looking for, I have been
in contact with a company who appears, at least initially, to be able
to produce what you are looking for. We've not discussed price as of
yet.
If your researcher becomes convinced that he has exhausted every
effort, I will gladly assume the question and proceed with it. In the
meantime I will continue to look into this further.
Regards;
tutuzdad-ga
|
Request for Question Clarification by
jackburton-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 03:08 PST
I assume it means ONE piece, costing $49, that will be chopped up into
100 pieces - but I'll ask them to clarify this, and get back to you...
|
Request for Question Clarification by
jackburton-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 03:58 PST
no, it doesn't ! ...It means $4900 for 100 minimum pcs, unfortunately.
I'll let you know what the other supplier says...
|
Request for Question Clarification by
tutuzdad-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 08:22 PST
Dear conditionone-ga:
As I've watched this progress, it is becoming more and more apparent
that the answers you are looking for are not forthcoming.
FYI - the craftsman I have been in communication with was astounded
when I mentioned the prices you have been quoted. His preliminary
estimates are at least 50% lower and he requires no setup fee. I have
read some of his customer's emails commending his work, and he has
offered to provide a written reference and a free sample of him work
to you in the form of a cup, crystal glass or whatever (no charge). He
tells me that he guarantees the image will be an identicial replica of
your business card, the cards will be very thin in comparision to the
sample image your researcher showed you earlier (but considerably
thicker than paper card, obviously)and roughly the same width and
legth dimensions as an actual card (except for an additional 3/16 area
around the edges needed to frave the quartz while etching it.)
I am prepared to provide the information to you upon request. Kust RFC
me here if you are interested in it.
Regards;
tutuzdad-ga
|
Clarification of Question by
conditionone-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 10:19 PST
If jackburton-ga has no problems with it, it would appear that you
have the information I need. Whether the project
is still cost-effective (ideally under $10 per card) remains to be
seen.
|
Request for Question Clarification by
tutuzdad-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 10:42 PST
Then I will wait until jackburton-ga indicates whether or not this is
acceptable before proceeding.
Until then,
tutuzdad-ga
|
Request for Question Clarification by
tutuzdad-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 15:46 PST
After revewing your response to my request for clarification, if I
understand you correclty, you are wishing me to move forward with my
information. If that is the case, I want to mention that my source
believes he can obtain the materials for around $10 per unit (card).
This plus his etching fee (labor) will total around $20-$25 per card.
If this is acceptable I will post my information. Honestly, I know of
no other service like this who can claim to provide a better price for
a custom ordered, non-synthetic, transparent card like the ones you
need.
Regards;
tutuzdad-ga
|
Clarification of Question by
conditionone-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 16:42 PST
This is my first question using Google Answers but I'm assuming that
whoever answers the question first receives the fee.
Tutuzdad-ga seems to have what I need so post it and I'll close the
question. Thanks for all your help guys.
|
Request for Question Clarification by
tutuzdad-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 17:38 PST
Your assumption regarding the fee is correct. There is no competetion
among researchers, but we do strive to provide timely answers where
possible.
As for my info, I must say this prior to posting: The source has said
that he cannot give an accurate estimate until he prices the materials
and cannot do that until Monday March 3, 2000 (which is tomorrow for
me) at the earliest (perhaps later if he has problems rounding up
suppliers. If you want me to post my info now and let you finish by
working with him directly I will do that - or - if you prefer to wait
until tomorrow (or perhaps later) to see if he knows more by them, we
can do that.
Regards;
tutuzdad-ga
|
Clarification of Question by
conditionone-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 18:30 PST
Please post all the details when you have it. If you can negotiate a
lower price (after all, I just need six lines of
text engraved, no pictures), that would be a bonus. Thank you.
|
Request for Question Clarification by
tutuzdad-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 18:37 PST
I and the source are both working very hard to obtain an estimate. He
has been very helpful and patient. I will re-establish contact with
him tomorrow morning and provide the details to you then if they
become available. I'm certain that if all goes as planned, this is the
man.
Regards;
tutuzdad-ga
|
Request for Question Clarification by
jackburton-ga
on
02 Mar 2003 23:45 PST
hi conditionone --- I should also have some more quotes for you on
monday. If they are reasonable, I'll let you know. I have no
objection in the meantime, if my fellow researcher wishes to post his
answer.
|
Request for Question Clarification by
tutuzdad-ga
on
03 Mar 2003 12:51 PST
Dear conditionone-ga;
The craftsman I have been dealing with regarding your question checked
with his source (a 50-year old business that he says is one of the
best sources available for the type of raw product you require). He
says this about his findings:
“The following appears to be the best I can do. To begin with, the
thickness has to be about 1/8 inch. Unable to cut it any thinner with
any consistency.
I looked at two mediums, clear quartz, and pink quartz.
Clear quartz - It has to come from Brazil and would take a minimum of
six weeks to get here, and then it would be cut to size. The cost per
unit is approximately $20.
Pink quartz - if you look at a chunk of it, you see a lot of clear and
a lot of pink. When cut to the size you mentioned, it basically looks
clear. In certain light you may see some pink. It comes from the
Southeast U.S., and would take a minimum of two weeks to get here, and
then it would be cut to size. The cost of this for unit is
approximately $18.
In an earlier note I mentioned I would charge $15 to etch each unit.
Being the cost of the material is be higher than I thought, as well as
taking into consideration the bids you mentioned, I would charge $10
to etch each item.
So, the total cost to etch the clear quartz will be $30 per unit. The
total cost to etch the pink quartz will be $28 per unit.
I have done the best I can to keep the cost down, and hope this is
acceptable.”
From what I gather, this is quite reasonable under the circumstances
(considering the uniqueness of the custom items being made). If this
offer sounds like it meets your expectations I will post my
information for you and put you in touch with the craftsman directly
for further consideration and negotiation.
Regards;
Tutuzdad-ga
|
Clarification of Question by
conditionone-ga
on
03 Mar 2003 14:17 PST
That's probably as cheap as it'll ever be then. I'll have to make a
small run to see how it turns out I guess. Post the information
and I'll close the question. Thanks!
|
Dear conditionone-ga;
Thank you for allowing me an opportunity to answer your interesting
question.
Upon reading your statement to my clarification request, I decided
that you were indeed interested in the research I had developed with
regard to a company capable of producing the quartz “cards”. I am
posting my information after several hours have passed with no further
response from the researcher who was working on your question.
I located an 8-year-old business in Kent, Washington (USA) called
NORTHWEST CREATIONS. I have spoken at length via email to the owner,
Doug Cowan. Cowan advised that his is retired from his life career and
has been doing this now for quite some time. He said he has little to
no overhead and can provide services like you are requesting at a much
more reasonable fee than most craftsmen since tremendous profit is not
his primary concern. He said he is quiet proficient in his craft and
offers this web site as an example:
NORTHWEST CREATIONS
http://www.nw-creations.com/ (new site under re-construction)
http://www.araltas.com/nwc/ (existing site, soon to be replaced by the
new site)
I described what you need and Cowan indicated that he could in fact
produce a run of these cards for you. He said the card would bear an
identical image to whatever example you provide to him (i.e., a paper
business card) and will be very much the same in size. The exception
to this will be the overall length and width, which he says will
differ only by 3/16 of an inch larger (on each edge) due to the fact
that he needs the space in order to frame each piece during etching.
Also, as you might expect, the thickness of the card will exceed that
of paper by a significant about in order to deal with the fragility of
the material. But as an example of the thickness Cowan offered a
comparison to that of a fluted champagne glass (which he said he also
has a great deal of experience working with) and said the thickness
would, at a minimum, need to be about 1/8 inch.
I made it abundantly clear that synthetic material was not an
acceptable option. Cowan has indicated that he can produce the cards
on naturally occurring, transparent quartz or similar type non-glass
crystal. He has said he can produce the 100-250 you are requesting.
As for the method use, Cowan says this: “I would etch them using
Aluminum Oxide, a very fine grit. Sand blasting using an air
compressor. This quality is excellent. Much better than hand etching,
acid, laser, etc. - you get exactly what is scanned into the
computer.”
As for cost, Cowan advised that he never charges a setup fee of any
kind (already a $250 savings over the previous information you were
provided). He indicated that clear quartz would have to be ordered
from Brazil and that it would take a minimum of six weeks to get here,
and then need to be cut to size. The cost per unit of the clear quartz
would be approximately $20 per unit (per “card”).
He said he could obtain pink quartz – a type of semi-transparent
quartz that bears a pink hue – from the Southeast US, which would take
a minimum of two weeks shipping, and then need to be cut into pieces.
He said when cut, the pink quartz appears almost clear. The cost of
this per unit (per “card”) is approximately $18.
In summary the offer is this:
CLEAR QUARTZ - $20 PER CARD + $10 ETCHING FEE PER CARD
= TOTAL COST: $30 PER CARD
PINK QUARTZ - $18 PER CARD + $10 ETCHING FEE PER CARD
= TOTAL COST: $28 PER CARD.
Cowan went on to say that the more you order the less the cost per
unit will be. He said he would provide you with a free etched sample
for your approval in the form of a coffee cup or glass. Cowan said “I
have shipped all over the U.S., Canada, England, Ireland, Scotland and
Australia. Frequently, my customers have sent me compliments on the
quality of my work. Today, I did a business card holder out of rock,
plus a rock sign for a local business.” And offered me numerous email
commendations from previous customers all of which were glowing
accolades. These emails came complete with email addresses to his
former clients, so presumably you could poll them individually for
satisfaction as well. He said he could provide you with written
recommendations if necessary along with the free sample he will be
sending to you as an example of his work.
You can contact NORTHWEST CREATIONS here:
Name:Doug Cowan
Business Name:Northwest Creations
Address:13106 S.E. 234th. St., Kent,Wa. 98031
Business Phone:253-631-5594 (24 Hour)
Cell Phone:253-709-4504 (24 Hour)
Fax:None
WEB Address:
http://www.nw-creations.com/ (new site under re-construction)
http://www.araltas.com/glass (click on "here" on last page of web
site)
http://www.araltas.com/nwc
Email Address:nwcreate@araltas.com
Below you will find that I have carefully defined my search strategy
for you in the event that you need to search for more information. By
following the same type of searches that I did you may be able to
enhance the research I have provided even further. I hope you find
that that my research exceeds your expectations. If you have any
questions about my research please post a clarification request prior
to rating the answer. Otherwise, I welcome your rating and your final
comments and I look forward to working with you again in the near
future. Thank you for bringing your question to us.
Best regards;
Tutuzdad-ga
INFORMATION SOURCES
NORTHWEST CREATIONS
http://www.nw-creations.com/ (new site under re-construction)
http://www.araltas.com/glass (click on "here" on last page of web
site)
http://www.araltas.com/nwc
SEARCH STRATEGY
SEARCH ENGINE USED:
Google ://www.google.com
SEARCH TERMS USED:
QUARTZ BUSINESS CARD
CUSTOM QUARTZ CARD
QUARTZ ETCHING
CRYSTAL ETCHING
CUSTOM ETCHING
CORPORATE GIFTS “BUSINESS CARD” |
Clarification of Answer by
tutuzdad-ga
on
03 Mar 2003 20:10 PST
Here are some other contacts for Doug Cowan's NORTHWEST CREATIONS. He
has asked that I forward them to you for your convenience:
nwc@araltas.com
This is listed on the web following web sites:
http://www.araltas.com
http://www.araltas.com/glass
and http://www.araltas.com/nwc
His new web site http://www.nw-creations.com will list a new email
address:
doug@nw-creations.com
Regards;
tutuzdad-ga
|
