Glossary of Terms for Awards, Trophies and Plaques

Coveted markers of recognition given to honour excellence, leadership, or achievement.

An Awards Program (see also Recognition Program or Certification Program), refers to a structured system within an organization that recognizes and honors individuals or teams for their exceptional achievements, contributions, or milestones, usually accompanied by formal acknowledgment and tangible rewards such as trophies, plaques, or certificates.

Award programs encourage specific behaviours, usually in support of achieving a larger collective goal, and can be very effective at changing organizational cultures to create new outcomes.

An artwork proof is a digital representation of how the final trophy design will look before production. The artwork proof allows clients to review and approve the design, ensuring accuracy and satisfaction before the trophies are manufactured. Eclipse Awards provides artwork proofs in pdf format with every order. 

Bespoke refers to something that is custom-made or tailored to meet specific individual requirements or preferences. In the context of trophies and awards, a bespoke design entails creating a unique and personalized piece that is crafted to exact specifications, ensuring a one-of-a-kind recognition item that reflects the distinct style, brand, and vision of the recipient or the organization.

Bitmaps files (also known as BMP or Raster images) are a type of digital image format that is composed of a grid of tiny squares called pixels. Bitmap files are commonly available and primarily used on the web, however they are unsuitable for award design as they are low resolution and cannot be resized without pixelation. Typical bitmap file extensions include .jpg, .png and .tiff.

Certificates are official documents that recognize and validate an individual's achievement, accomplishment, or completion of a specific task or program. They are often personalized with the recipient's name, the title of the achievement, and relevant details. Certificates are commonly used in academic institutions, professional organizations, corporate recognition programs, and industry certification programs.

A certification program is a specialized training or educational program that aims to equip participants with specific skills and knowledge in a particular field. By completing the program’s requirements, participants receive a certification that demonstrates their expertise and can boost their credibility in that industry. Certification programs can also be effective at establishing credibility and communicating the values of an association or industry.

Colour fills refer to the process of adding colors to specific areas or elements of a design, with the intention of enhancing the overall visual appeal of the design.

Cosmo Printing is a marking process that applies full colour artwork directly onto the flat surface(s) of an award. The printed artwork is instantly cured by UV light to secure it in place, which results in a vibrant, high definition surface marking.

Cosmo Print is considered a semi-permanent marking, which means it is durable and will last for years with normal handling, but it can be affected when scratched with a hard object.

Also see UV Printing.

In earlier times, authentic crystal possessed a lead content of 24%, which contributed to its weight and clarity. However, as the hazards associated with lead became evident, genuine 24% lead crystal was gradually discontinued and replaced by a superior, high quality optical glass now recognized as crystal. Today, the crystal utilized for crafting awards and trophies no longer includes lead. The finest trophies are fashioned from K9 Optic Crystal, renowned for its exceptional density and brilliance.

Also see Optic Crystal.

Custom awards (sometimes called custom trophies) are individually designed and peronsonalized recognition items that are created to celebrate special occasions, achievements, or milestones. At Eclipse, all awards and trophies in our House Collection are customized through unique design and markings that can include recipient names, logos, text messages, graphics and colours.

However, if the customizations required involve unique sizes, shapes or materials, we refer to those as Original Concept Awards because the degree of design and customization is much higher.

Customization refers to the ability to personalize and tailor trophies according to individual preferences and requirements, ensuring that each award is uniquely designed to reflect the recipient's achievements and embody the brand and values of the event or organization. It allows for the inclusion of specific logos, engravings, and custom elements, making the trophy a meaningful and memorable symbol of recognition.

The terms customization and personalization are often used interchangeably, though customization typically refers to the style and dimensions of a piece, while personalization refers to the markings on it.

Deal toys (also known Deal Gifts) are unique and customized commemorative items used to celebrate and honor significant business transactions, mergers, acquisitions, or other financial achievements. They often display a theme that represents the specific deal or industry, and serve as a tangible and memorable symbol of success and partnership.

See also Financial Tombstones.

Decals are adhesive graphics or designs that can be applied to flat surfaces such as walls and windows. Decals are often used in certification programs to identify qualified individuals or organizations.

Eco-friendly Awards (also known as Sustainable Trophies, Green Awards and Earth-friendly Awards) are made from eco-friendly materials such as salvaged wood or recycled glass. Though historically used to recognize leadership and excellence in sustainability, eco-friendly awards are now widely popular and used to recognize any occasion or milestone.

Financial Tombstones are customized gifts designed to commemorate a successful merger, acquisition, financial milestone, or business deal. They typically portray the details of the deal and logos of the parties involved. Financial tombstones are prized and coveted as lasting symbols of achievement and success, recognizing significant milestones in the world of finance.

In the past, lucite and acrylic were popular materials for financial tombstones, however today more companies are choosing eco-friendly materials like wood and glass instead.

Also see Deal Toys & Deal Gifts.

House Collection refers to the unique set of awards, trophies and plaques curated and offered exclusively by Eclipse Awards. Items in our House Collection have been developed and chosen for their quality, beauty, popularity and timeless style. House Collection awards and trophies are kept in stock and can be customized, personalized, and delivered within 3 weeks.

See also Customization and Personalization.

Jade glass is a relatively clear glass with a subtle greenish hue that is most noticeable when viewed from the edge. Aside from the greenish tint, which some people prefer, jade glass has the same qualities as clear glass and looks great when sandblast engraved.

LeafWood consists of a real wood veneer over an mdf core. The combination provides the warm look and feel of wood with the structural stability of mdf, which makes it perfect for signs, plaques, nameplates, donor wall and name tags. LeafWood is 3mm (3/32”) thick and part of the Sunwood Series, so it can be laser engraved and cut to virtually any shape. LeafWood is available in Maple, Cherry and Walnut. 

See also TrueWood and Sunwood Series.

Lead time is the time required to design, produce and deliver your order. Our standard lead time is 15 business days from your artwork approval date to in your hands. Note that for any delivery date, the delivery is by the end of day, that day.

See also Rush Delivery.

Laser Engraving (also known as Solar Laser Engraving at Eclipse Awards) is a permanent marking process that uses a focused beam of light to carve text, logos, artwork into wood. Laser Engraving is a precise machine process that allows for tremendous detail and resolution, though no colour. Our designers and makers are skilled at laser engraving, ensuring that all laser engraved wood awards look sharp and eye-catching.

Eclipse is uniquely able to offer Solar Laser Engraving because our laser engraver is powered by clean energy from our rooftop solar panels.

A marking is the process used to add personalization details to a trophy or award. To mark crystal and glass awards we use Sandblasting Engraving. For wooden awards we use Solar Laser Engraving (which is laser engraving powered by clean energy from the sun). Both sandblasted and laser engraved markings are permanent and have a high perceived value. Cosmo Print is a marking process that prints vibrant colors and graphics directly onto a flat surfaces, and can be applied to both crystal and wooden trophies.

Visit this page for information on these 3 marking styles.

A mockup (also known as an Artwork Proof) is a 2D visual representation of a proposed design that is created before production to provide a preview of the final production. Mockups allow clients to visualize and approve the design, materials and customization options, ensuring that the end result meets their expectations and provides a clear understanding of how the trophy will look when completed.

Name plates are typically rectangular plates made from metal or wood that contain a name, date, and/or short message. Name plates are typically used to update trophy bases or perpetual award plaques, thought they can also be used as small signs or identification plaques.

Optic Crystal (also known as Optical Crystal) is lead-free and widely regarded as a premium material for awards and trophies because of its brilliance and clarity. Optic Crystal is created by a special process that eliminates bubbles and flow lines, making it extremely clear and sparkly. Eclipse Awards uses K9 Optic Crystal, which is the highest grade of Optic Crystal.

If an award requires customization in terms of size, shape, or material, it is considered an Original Concept Award. Original Concept Awards do not currently exist yet and require a special design and manufacturing processes, which typically makes them more costly, but also more unique.

By contrast, any of the awards in our House Collection can be customized and personalized through design and markings, however their overall size, shape and materials remain unchanged.

Perpetual Plaque (also known as Perpetual Awards) are special types of recognition plaques that are designed to accommodate multiple names or inscriptions over an extended period of time. They often feature multiple plates or panels that can be easily engraved or updated, making them ideal for recognizing recurring awards or achievements within an organization or event. An ongoing Employee of the Month Plaque is an example of a Perpetual Plaque.

Personalization refers to the process of customizing trophies and awards to reflect the unique characteristics and preferences of the recipient or the occasion. It incorporates elements such as recipient name, logo(s), message, brand elements, or specific design choices to create a meaningful and individualized trophy that provides a personal connection and special touch to the recipient.

Personalized pieces have a high perceived value because they are made with intention and not considered “off the shelf”. Eclipse Awards provides personalization on all orders.

Plaques (also known as Wall Plaques) are flat, often rectangular-shaped awards that are typically made of wood, glass, or metal. They are commonly used to recognize achievements, certifications, accomplishments, or contributions, and can be customized with text, logos, or artwork to create a distinguished and timeless symbol of recognition.

Wall plaques are particularly useful in areas where counter space is at a premium, or when you want the award to receive high visibility. 

Promotional items are products that are customized with a company's logo, brand message, or contact information and used as marketing tools to promote a business or organization. Promotional items are typically given away or distributed to customers, clients, or prospects to increase brand visibility, create a positive impression, and serve as a reminder of the company's products or services.

See also Swag.

Proofs (also known Mockups) are digital illustrations of proposed designs, used for design evaluation, feedback, and approval before production begins. At Eclipse Awards we provide proofs with every order, you can request unlimited design revisions at no charge, and we require your approval of the artwork proof before we can produce your order.

See also Artwork Proofs.

An intentional expression of positive approval that communicates admiration, respect and gratitude. Recognition is the act of acknowledging and appreciating someone's achievements, contributions, or efforts. It serves as a way to honor and validate individuals or organizations for their accomplishments, motivating and inspiring them while also fostering a positive and supportive environment.

Recycled glass refers to glass that has been either salvaged from manufacturing processes or reclaimed from post consumer use. Our recycled glass awards include glass offcuts from the awards manufacturing process. 

Rush delivery refers to any order that is required in less than 3 weeks. Rush delivery prioritizes the quick production and shipment of orders without compromising on quality or customization. 5 levels of rush delivery are available, depending on how quickly delivery is required. Rush charges are applied to rush orders because of the accelerated design and production processes required.

Salvaged wood is wood that has been reclaimed in some way, either from natural situations or deconstructed building projects. At Eclipse, some of our awards are made from wood that has been salvaged from windfallen trees, while others are made from reclaimed urban timbers that traditionally would have been sent to landfill. 

Sandblast engraving is a marking process used to create intricate and permanent designs on the surface of crystal trophies and awards. It involves using high-pressure air to propel fine particles of abrasive material onto the crystal, carving out the desired patterns or text, resulting in a textured and visually striking engraving that adds depth and detail to the trophy.

Sandblasted crystal has a high perceived value because the markings are deep and permanent. Sandblast engraving is a manual skill that benefits from experience to look great and our team of talented sandcarvers ensures that the sandblasting on all crystal awards looks crisp and impressive!

Standoff hardware refers to the specialized mounting systems used to securely attach plaques or signs to walls or other surfaces. Standoff hardware typically consists of metal posts and caps that create a gap between the plaque and the mounting surface, giving it a visually appealing floating effect while also ensuring stability and durability.

Sublimation is a marking technique that allows for high-quality, full-color designs to be permanently transferred onto a variety of special materials. Through the application of heat and pressure, the design is transferred as a gas, resulting in prints that seamlessly blend with the material for a smooth and professional finish.

SunWood Series consists of LeafWood and TrueWood materials, which can be engraved and cut to shape by solar powered laser. SunWood Series materials are exclusive to Eclipse Awards and offer the warm look and feel of real wood that can be customized in an eco-friendly manner.

See also TrueWood and LeafWood.

Sustainable Trophy Plaques (see also Sustainable Trophies and Eco-friendly Awards) are eco-conscious alternatives to traditional trophy plaques that are designed with eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes. These plaques are crafted using organic wood or recycled materials and promote sustainability by minimizing waste, reducing carbon footprint, and aligning with eco-conscious values, without compromising on quality or aesthetic appeal.

Swag refers to promotional merchandise or freebies that are typically given away by companies at events, trade shows, or as part of marketing campaigns. These items often bear the company's logo, slogan, or branding and are distributed as a way to generate brand awareness, create a positive association with the company, and serve as tangible reminders of the brand to recipients.

See also Promotional Items.

A trophy is a tangible symbol of recognition and achievement, often presented as an award for outstanding performance or success in a particular field or event. It serves as a physical representation of accomplishment, celebrating individuals or teams for their exceptional efforts and achievements. Trophies come in various shapes and materials such as crystal or wood, and are customized with engravings, logos, or personalized details to create a unique and cherished memento of success.

TrueWood is composed of real wood panels that offer the warm natural look of true wood, making it ideal for signs, plaques, nameplates, donor wall and name tags. TrueWood is 5mm (3/16”) thick and part of the Sunwood Series, so it can be laser engraved and cut to virtually any shape. TrueWood is available in Maple, Cherry and Walnut.

See also LeafWood and Sunwood Series.

UV printing is a modern printing technique that utilizes ultraviolet light to instantly cure or dry the ink as it is applied to the surface of trophies and awards. This marking process offers exceptional print quality, sharpness, and durability, allowing for vibrant and precise graphics, text, or logos to be directly printed on wood and glass, resulting in a professional and long-lasting customization.

See also Cosmo Print.

A vector file is a digital graphic format (such as .eps or .ai) that uses mathematical equations to define and render shapes, lines, and colors. Unlike Bitmap files and Raster images, which are made up of individual pixels, vector files are infinitely scalable without losing image quality, making them ideal for designing trophies and awards.

Vector files are required for logos, artwork, and graphics that require flexibility and precision in resizing and editing.

* Note: simply saving a Bitmap file with a Vector file extension will not create a vector file.

Vectorization is the digital process of converting a low resolution Bitmap file to a high resolution Vector file. We provide one free logo vectorization with every order and it usually takes 24 hours to vectorize a file. Additional logo vectorizations are $75 each.