Abstract: A method of annealing at least one sapphire lamina is disclosed. The method comprises at least two different heating steps and produces an annealed sapphire lamina having improved optical properties that can be used for fabricating a cover plate of an electronic device. The cover plate and electronic device comprising the annealed sapphire lamina are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of producing a crystalline product comprising a high percentage by volume monocrystalline material in a crystal growth apparatus is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing a crucible comprising feedstock and at least one monocrystalline seed, melting the feedstock without substantially melting the monocrystalline seed under controlled conditions, and forming the crystalline product by solidification of the melt also under controlled conditions. The resulting crystalline product comprises greater than 50% by volume monocrystalline material.