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Dedicated to providing exceptional quality materials for luthiers, our commitment drives innovation and craftsmanship in every piece.
Premium luthier woods
Handpicked for unparalleled resonance and beauty. Perfect for creating distinctive stringed instruments.
Experience the difference with our expertly curated selection. Your masterpiece awaits with each unique grain.
Bearclaw Figure
What is Bearclaw Figure?
Bearclaw figure, also known as hazelfichte in German-speaking regions, refers to a distinct rippling or shimmering pattern in the grain of Sitka Spruce. Bearclaw occurs when the longitudinal fibers of the tree undergo a structural shift, creating asymmetrical indentations in the growth rings.
Structural Integrity and Density
- Stiffness: These indentations indicate a higher degree of cross-grain stiffness.
- Density: Bearclaw specimens are typically found in older, slower-growing trees, resulting in wood that is denser than average Sitka Spruce.
Acoustic Properties
A soundboard must maximize its strength-to-weight ratio to vibrate efficiently while under the tension of steel strings.
- Velocity of Sound: Increased stiffness allows vibrations to travel through the soundboard at a higher velocity.
- Harmonic Complexity: The structural irregularities in the grain break up standing waves, often resulting in a richer, more complex harmonic profile.
- Headroom: Due to the inherent density, bearclaw tops can be driven harder before the sound "breaks up," offering greater dynamic range.
Master Grade Classification
In the context of Master Grade selection, bearclaw is valued for both its physical performance and its scarcity.
- Rarity: This figure is found in less than 5% of the Sitka Spruce population.
- Longevity: Because it originates in old-growth timber, the wood has reached peak cellular stability, reducing the likelihood of warping over time.