Real Lattice And It's Benefits

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crazyhog

Can't Leave
May 18, 2015
366
597
Westchester County, New York
I've been doing a little research on my new AKB Meerschaum. I found some interesting information about how lattice pipes should be constructed. Luckily mine was done the right way, but many are not.

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Lattice designed meerschaum pipes typically feature a separation between the outer lattice and the inner bowl.
This separation is often created by meticulously carving away the material to create a distinct space or gap between the two layers. This technique showcases the skill and artistry of the carver and contributes to the visual depth and dimension of the pipe.
The separation serves multiple purposes:

  • Aesthetics: It enhances the intricate lattice design, allowing it to stand out and create a visually appealing effect.
  • Heat Dissipation: The gap can potentially aid in heat dissipation, though meerschaum is known for its cool smoking properties due to its porous nature.
  • Coloring: As the pipe is smoked and changes color, the separation can allow for interesting coloring patterns and contrasts between the inner bowl and the outer lattice, enhancing the pipe's aesthetic appeal over time.
It's important to note that the presence and extent of the separation can vary depending on the specific pipe and the carver's design. However, the separation is a common feature in proper lattice-designed meerschaum pipes and contribute to it's color variations.
 
Last edited:
Jul 19, 2024
1,327
5,349
Indiana by way of Paris, France

Waning Embers

Captain of the Black Frigate
Nov 12, 2014
47,718
128,972
Aren't the "hollow" lattice meerschaums very fragile? They look it.
Not at all. I tried to crush one in my hand to no avail. Meerschaum is much more resilient than is talked about.

Isn't this the same principle as those briars with the silver ring full of holes atop the bowl? They came up for discussion a few weeks ago.... Leonardos?

Not really. If a person is a hot smoker and they hold their pipe, the exterior wall makes very little contact with the bowl.
 

Briar Lee

Lifer
Sep 4, 2021
6,958
23,516
Humansville Missouri
The fortunate thing for pipe smokers who want an heirloom quality meerschaum pipe is that every one is carved by a carver in Turkey. There are many times fewer sold than years ago. And because Turkey, a modern nation and member of NATO, has utterly destroyed the exchange value of the Turkish lira by a strongman style government setting interest rates instead of an independent national bank a Euro, a Pound, or a Dollar buys a quality meerschaum for less money today than forty years ago.

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The Turkish people will someday tire of their currency being devalued to wallpaper level value.

A truly high quality meerschaum pipe has never been cheaper and will not always be this cheap.

Now is the time to buy.