Aetheryte Crystals

3D printed illuminated table decorations - June 2026

10 3D printed Aetheryte Crystals, with glowing blue crystals A render of the Aetheryte Crystal model

A commissioned batch of eight 30cm-tall illuminated centrepieces based on the Aetheryte Crystal from Final Fantasy XIV for a themed wedding. The project required rapid CAD modelling from visual reference,prototype validation, embedded circuit design, and small-batch production within tight deadlines.

Designed for Additive Manufacturing

After finishing the final model in Blender, 8 identical units were printed using a Bambu Lab A1 FDM printer in PLA and PETG filaments. Slicing parameters were optimised in Bambu Studio for smooth surface finishes, high crystal transparency, and high durability.

Rapid Prototyping

Several prototypes were created for this project, exploring different materials, finishes and power configurations with the client. 6x AAs were chosen to power each unit, providing over 10 hours of runtime, visible in all lighting conditions.

A freshly-printed prototype Aetheryte Crystal printied in grey PLA
A prototype was printed in plain PLA for size verification
A 3D printed Aetheryte Crystal statue, printed in gold PLA with glowing transparent blue crystals
A functional prototype was printed in Silk Gold PLA
Several 3D printed pieces of the Aetheryte Crystal being spraypainted.
The final models were printed in plain PLA and sprayed gold.

Embedded Electronics

5x 20mA LEDs and one 350mA LED are soldered into each unit, with an inline power switch hidden under the base, and wiring hidden inside channels built into the model.

Workbench setup featuring 3D printed parts, resistors, LEDs and heat-shrink tubing ready for assembly.
Each model houses a total of 5x 20mA LEDs with accompanying resistors to illuminate the small crystals, a powerful 350mA watt LED to illuminate the main crystal, 6x AA batteries, an LED driver for the main LED, and a wiring loom hidden in the model. The batteries are access through a magnetic battery door at the base of the model

Final Result

All eight centerpieces were finished in time for the wedding, with very positive feedback from the happy couple. Curiously only two centrepieces remained after the wedding.

A beautifully arranged table centerpiece featuring a glowing blue Aetheryte Crystal model surrounded by flowers and candles in white and pink, set against a backdrop of elegant glassware and place settings.
The finished model in situ

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