So have a decent little collection of pipes, predominately estates that I have refurbed. Yet on one "no name", and a free state peterson I've noticed a consistent grain like pattern that overlays the true grain of the briar, not to mention runs opposite the general grain pattern. Each line in this "ghost grain" seem to follow a pattern as would the true grain of the briar. I have several newer pipes made between the 1970s and present year that do not show this quality. Both pipes with this "ghost grain" are unvarnished and have been sanded and re-treated with oil during their refurb processes. Has anyone ever seen this in a pipe before, any theory or explanations to this occurrence? By the way I'm new here and hope my inquiry is placed under the right category, especially this being my first question. Thanks