Weaving intricate, microscopic patterns of crystal or glass is now possible thanks to engineers at Rice University, Houston, Texas. Rice materials scientists are creating nanostructures of silica with ...

Upon René’s death in 1945, his son Marc instigated the shift from mid-range, utilitarian glass to high-end crystal, and the Lalique factory has only manufactured crystalware since.

Crystal has been 3D-printed into vases, upcycled into terrazzo and channelled into solar panels by the Swarovski Designers of the Future.

They used a 3D kagome-shaped lattice, which is used in the traditional Japanese art of basket weaving. Similar 2D lattices already demonstrated flat band electrons so the team felt this was a way ...