Horizontal Burl Wood & Copper Necklace
At Sticks & Stones, I have the pleasure of working with some of nature's most extraordinary creations. Among these, wood burls stand out as truly remarkable. These rare and stunning formations are not just a species of wood, but rather a unique growth pattern that occurs in various tree species, captivating artisans and collectors alike with their beauty and complexity.
What is Wood Burl?
Wood burl is a tree growth in which the grain has grown in a deformed manner. It's often the result of a tree undergoing some form of stress, such as injury, virus, or fungal infection. This stress causes the tree to grow around the affected area, creating the distinctive and highly prized burl wood.
The result of this natural phenomenon is a swirling, mesmerizing pattern that's completely unique to each piece. Burls can be found on a variety of tree species, including oak, maple, redwood, and many others. Each type of burl has its own characteristics, often reflecting the qualities of its host tree species while displaying its own distinct beauty.
The Diversity of Burls
While many people might think of burls as simply knotty growths, the world of burls is incredibly diverse. Here are a few examples:
- Maple Burl: Known for its light color and intricate patterns, often featuring "eyes" or small dark circles throughout.
- Oak Burl: Typically darker and denser, with a strong grain pattern that can range from subtle to dramatic.
- Redwood Burl: Often reddish-brown in color, with complex swirling patterns and a variety of grain directions.
- Walnut Burl: Usually dark brown with black streaks, offering a rich, luxurious appearance.
Each of these burls, and many others, offers its own unique challenges and rewards when working with them.
The Art of Working with Burl
Working with wood burl is a true joy for me as an artist, but it's not without its challenges. Each piece is different and presents a new puzzle to solve in terms of shaping and carving.
The process begins with careful selection. I look for interesting patterns and colors, as well as any flaws or imperfections that add character to the piece. The goal is to find a burl that speaks to me, one that suggests a form or design that will showcase its natural beauty.
Turquoise Burl Wood & Ebony Bolo
Once selected, the process of shaping the burl begins. This can be a delicate and time-consuming process. Burl wood is often quite hard and can be unpredictable to work with due to its irregular grain patterns. It requires sharp tools, a steady hand, and a lot of patience.
One of the biggest challenges in working with burl is dealing with voids or soft spots that are common in these growths. Sometimes these need to be filled with resin or other materials, while other times they can be incorporated into the design as unique features.
The finishing process is equally important. Careful sanding and polishing can bring out the depth and complexity of the burl's patterns, making the wood seem to glow from within. The right finish can enhance the natural colors and provide necessary protection for the piece.
The Allure of Amboyna Burl
Among the various types of burls, Amboyna burl stands out as one of the most sought-after in the world. This exquisite burl comes from several species of Pterocarpus trees, which are native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia.
Amboyna burl is prized for its striking appearance, characterized by a rich, reddish-brown color and intricate, swirling patterns. The burl often features golden or amber hues mixed with darker tones, creating a depth and complexity that's truly captivating.
Antler Point Necklace With Amboyna Burl Wood & Sleeping Beauty Turquoise
What makes Amboyna burl so desirable is not just its beauty, but also its rarity. The burl only forms on a small percentage of trees, and even then, only a fraction of the burl may be suitable for use in fine woodworking or jewelry making. This scarcity, combined with its stunning appearance, makes Amboyna burl highly valuable and sought after by collectors and artisans alike.
Working with Amboyna burl is a particularly rewarding experience. Its dense grain allows for a high polish, resulting in pieces that seem to glow from within. The intricate patterns of the burl make each piece truly unique, ensuring that no two creations are ever exactly alike.
The Value of Burl Wood Jewelry
Purple Burl Wood & Brass Necklace
If you're looking for a unique and beautiful piece of jewelry, check out my collection of wood burl pieces. Each one is carefully crafted by hand and is truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you choose a pendant necklace or a ring, you can be sure that you are getting a piece of jewelry that is both beautiful and meaningful.
Wood burl jewelry offers a perfect blend of nature's artistry and human craftsmanship. These pieces not only serve as stunning accessories but also as small, wearable works of art that carry a piece of nature's wonder with you wherever you go.
Moreover, burl wood jewelry often tells a story. Each piece represents a moment in a tree's life, a response to adversity that created something beautiful. Wearing burl wood jewelry can be a reminder of resilience and the beauty that can come from life's challenges.
In conclusion, working with wood burls is more than just crafting jewelry; it's about preserving and showcasing a unique natural wonder. Each piece of burl wood jewelry is a testament to the incredible diversity and beauty of the natural world, transformed by skilled hands into wearable art that will be treasured for years to come.
