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Buying guides · CollectingReading Grain: Birdseye, Flame & Cross-Cut Explained
Most pipe makers sell you marketing, not quality wood. After examining thousands of briar blocks, I'll show you the 5 signs of truly exceptional Mediterranean briar.
Most pipe makers sell you marketing, not quality wood. After examining thousands of briar blocks, I'll show you the grain patterns of truly exceptional Mediterranean briar.
Understanding Briar Grain Patterns
Briar comes from the burl of the Erica Arborea shrub. The way the block is cut determines the final grain pattern:
Reading Grain: Birdseye, Flame & Cross-Cut Explained
Straight Grain: The grains run vertically up the sides of the bowl. Highly prized and expensive.
Flame Grain: Grains run vertically but with a slightly wider, wavy pattern.
Birdseye: The cross-cut of the grain tubes, appearing as beautiful tiny swirls.
Cross-Cut: Grains running horizontally, showcasing birdseye on the sides and straight grain on front/back.
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