Bent Apple shaped pipe in sea foam with floral decorations

Meerschaum is a material generally known as the "white goddess," and its admirers particularly emphasize its use in classic tobacco pipes.

Meerschaum is composed of hydrated magnesium silicate (scientifically known as sepiolite) found in Turkey and Tanzania.

Its origin is uncertain, but it is believed that calcareous river water eroded the magnesium rocks and deposited the resulting mud. Possible geological changes would have caused the river's course to change, leaving behind alluvial deposits at depths of between forty and eighty meters, which would then have been compressed into blocks by the pressure exerted by the overlying tectonic masses.

While there are countless legends surrounding the birth of the first pipe made from this particularly lightweight material, it is certain that the first European meerschaum pipes were made in Hungary and imported by aristocrats to Vienna, where a meerschaum processing center developed.

By 1870, over two hundred companies in the Austrian capital were producing hydrated magnesium silicate pipes, and the term "Vienna Meerschaum" was introduced into pipe literature.

The best meerschaum used in pipe making is the block meerschaum from Turkey.

The material from Tanzania is geologically much younger than the Turkish material and does not yield the same performance, nor does it have the same pure white color as the Turkish material, which is mainly mined in the region surrounding Eskisehir.

For lower-priced pipes, pressed meerschaum is also used, consisting of meerschaum waste held together by pressure and a binder.

The lowest quality is bulk meerschaum, which also consists of waste. Contrary to what was previously explained, this is ground into a pulp, which, once water, potassium silicate, and potassium salts have been added, is boiled for processing.

Meerschaum pipes in blocks are usually made on a lathe.

First, the blocks are cut to the right size, softened in water, and finally, while still wet, they are turned and drilled, often with carvings or ornaments applied.

While in the past, the turned or carved heads were dipped in whalebone white, today they are dipped in bleached white wax.

Meerschaum pipes have won over many smokers because they do not require breaking in, do not burn, and allow the tobacco to retain its flavor.

Here we have a meerschaum pipe with a classic spherical shape called a curved Apple, medium-sized but very light and balanced.

The pipe's bowl is decorated and carved with a special floral design that becomes even more beautiful with use.

The floral decoration on the meerschaum pipe is entirely handmade.

Note the long, thin juvelite mouthpiece, marbled amber in color and reinforced with Teflon for a better seal.

Each meerschaum pipe is unique and one-of-a-kind, and the photos you see depict this exclusive pipe. Once purchased, it will be removed from the catalog.

If you require more detailed photos, we will be happy to send them to you.

The meerschaum pipe comes with a personalized case for protection and transport.

1) Width 147 mm

2) Height 56 mm

3) Depth 44 mm

4) Bowl diameter 19 mm

5) Bowl depth 42 mm

Features:

Juvelite mouthpiece, marbled straw-colored, light amber.

Diameter: 6 mm, Teflon reinforcement, no filter.

Weight: 44 grams

Shape: Classic curved apple.

Finish: Uniform white meerschaum, sculpted and decorated with a floral pattern.

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