Types of Trophies, Medals and Awards
Giving out trophies, medals and awards has long been a tradition to recognize achievements, accomplishments and victories. These prizes come in a variety of styles, sizes and materials to match the occasion.
Trophies
Trophies are often the most iconic prize. They typically feature a figurine statue mounted on a base. Common trophy designs include:
- Sports figures like football player or gymnast
- Cups and bowls
- Pillars or columns
Trophies are made of materials like:
- Plastic - Acrylic trophies are transparent and modern looking. PVC plastic trophies are more affordable.
- Metal - Gold, silver and bronze metals give a luxe feel.
- Glass - Crystal glass trophies have an elegant style.
- Wood - Rustic and classic trophies can be carved of wood.
Medals
Medals are iconically shaped as a circle that hangs from a ribbon. They often feature an engraved design. Common types include:
- Gold, silver and bronze medals to denote 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.
- Military medals like Purple Heart and Medal of Honor.
- Commemorative medals for events like marathons.
Medals are made of materials like:
- Gold, silver, bronze metals.
- Alloy metals like brass.
- Ribbon materials like polyester grosgrain.
Plaques and Awards
Plaques and other awards have a flat, mounted surface to display information. Types include:
- Acrylic or crystal cut glass plaques.
- Engraved wood or metal plates.
- Certificates or paper awards.
These display the achievement, date and recipient. Popular plaque shapes are oval, rectangle and star.!
Trophies, medals and awards come in many styles to suit any occasion. From sports victories to academic achievements and beyond, these prizes convey pride and recognition.
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Engraving and Customization
Adding engraving and customization to trophies, medals and awards personalizes them into meaningful prizes. There are many options to tailor awards to the recipient and occasion.
Engraving
Engraving involves etching words, symbols or designs into the surface material. Common engraving options include:
- Recipient's name
- Achievement or occasion
- Organization or team name
- Date
- Inspirational quotes
- Clip art or logo images
Materials that can be engraved include:
- Metal - brass, aluminum, steel, silver, gold
- Wood
- Acrylic
- Glass
Engraving Methods
- Laser engraving - For metals and some plastics
- Mechanical engraving - For metals using a precision tool
- Sandblasting - For glass and stone materials
Customization
Beyond engraving, many other options exist to customize awards:
- Printing - Ink prints names, photos, designs on paper awards
- Embossing - Raises text and images on metals, acrylic, wood, leather
- Screen printing - Applies ink designs and logos on metals, glass, wood
- Etching - Uses acids to etch designs into glass
- Die struck - Impresses designed images onto medal faces
Most trophies, plaques, medals and certificates can be customized to make prized awards. Personalized awards show recipients they are valued and celebrated.
How to Care For and Display Awards
Trophies, medals and awards represent cherished achievements. With proper care and display, they can be enjoyed for years to come.
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Caring for Awards
Use these tips to care for prized awards:
- Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Store out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Use polish made for the award's material to remove tarnish and restore shine.
- Consider protective cases for medals and trophies.
- Handle gently to avoid dents, chips and scratches.
By Material
- Wood - Dust occasionally. Touch up finish if needed.
- Metal - Polish gently to remove tarnish. Lacquer may help prevent future tarnishing.
- Glass/acrylic - Use glass cleaner and soft cloth.
- Paper - Display out of direct sunlight. Place in protective sleeve.
Displaying Awards
Proudly display awards with these ideas:
- Shelf - Arrange by height, material, color.
- Display case - Perfect for showing off medals and trophies.
- Shadow box - Frame medal or trophy in a box with fabric lining.
- Wall plaque - Mount directly on wall or on a decorative background.
- Desk stand - Show off award on desk, mantel or shelf.
Choose locations out of direct sun and away from heat sources. Consider lighting to highlight awards. Proper care and creative displays let you enjoy awards for years to come.
Trophy, Medal and Award Basics
Recognizing achievements with prizes has a long tradition. Trophies, medals and awards come in a variety of shapes and styles.
Trophies
Trophies feature a figurine or statue mounted on a base. Popular trophy styles include:
- Sports figures like a football player or gymnast
- Cups or bowls symbolizing victory
- Columns or pillars representing strength
Trophies are commonly made of materials like acrylic, metal, wood or glass. For example, the FIFA World Cup Trophy is made of over 5 pounds of 18 karat gold.
Medals
Medals are iconic circular awards that hang from a ribbon. They often feature engraved designs. Types include:
- Gold, silver, bronze medals for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place
- Military medals like the Purple Heart and Medal of Honor
- Commemorative medals for events like marathons
Medals can be made of metals like gold, silver and bronze. The Olympic gold medals contain 6 grams of gold plating over silver.
Plaques and Awards
Plaques feature words or designs engraved or attached to a flat surface. Awards can also be in the form of certificates, trophies, ribbons and more. Some examples are:
- Wood or acrylic plaques with engraved nameplates
- Certificates recognizing academics or career achievements
- Rosette ribbons for animal competitions
Trophies, medals and awards come in endless styles to suit any occasion, from honoring victory to acknowledging achievements.
Materials and Finishes
Trophies, medals and awards come in a variety of materials and finishes to convey different styles. The material impacts the look, feel and durability of each prize.
Common Materials
- Plastics like acrylic and PVC are affordable and lightweight.
- Metals like gold, silver, copper and brass have a luxe, substantial feel.
- Glass including crystal, provides an elegant, transparent look.
- Wood gives a classic, rustic style.
- Paper is traditional for certificates and awards.
Metal Finishes
Metals can have different finishes applied:
- Polished - Buffed to a mirror shine.
- Brushed - A satin texture with fine lines.
- Antique - A darkened patina.
- Two-tone - Combining finishes like polished and brushed.
For example, the gold Olympic medals are highly polished while military medals often have an antique finish.
Non-Metal Finishes
- Glossy - Acrylic and glass tend to be clear and shiny when polished.
- Frosted - Glass and acrylics can be sandblasted for a frosted look.
- Painted - Items like resin trophies and wood plaques are painted for color.
- Stained - For a rich, warm wood stain on items like plaques.
Consider the finish that best represents the award's meaning, from sleek and modern to vintage and rustic styles.
Celebrate Your Achievements With Trophies, Medals & Awards
If you're looking to celebrate your achievements, trophies, medals, and awards are a great way to do so. There are many options available to suit your needs, from customizable achievement medals to a wide variety of trophies, medals, and awards for all sports and events. You can also find achievement plaques and acrylic awards for corporate recognition. Many of these options come with free engraving and shipping, making it easy to personalize your award and have it delivered to you quickly.
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What Are Some Popular Types Of Achievement Awards?
There are many types of achievement awards available for various purposes. Here are some popular types of achievement awards:
These are just a few examples of the many types of achievement awards available.
