Sep 28 2011
Spotlight on Thuya Burl: Its Uses in the Making of Jewelry Box
Thuya Burl is among the many exotic woods around. It is only when you own a jewelry box made from this burl that you will be able to tell the difference. Tetraclicis Articulata is its botanical name. Found underground, this tree sprouts independently.
Morocco and the Atlas mountains are where Thuya burl is predominantly found. The meaning of the word ‘Thuya’ is sacrifice. Moroccan jewelry boxes that are made from Thuya burl are famous. This wood is the favorite of old timers in the creation of a number of items.
Early churches still use the oil extracted from this wood to burn incense. You will find it in religious ceremonies as well. Thanks to its natural fragrance, Thuya burl is also used in making furniture in a number of churches.
Some ancient churches also use jewelry chests made of Thuya burl wood to store their choir costumes. The oil distilled from it is utilized to burn incense. While working with this burl it will emit a lovely fragrance and oil as well.
Due to its exotic aroma, Greeks and Romans used this wood extensively to make their furniture. Working with this wood is easy for artisans since the grain is twisted and the wood becomes pliable once it is carved, turned and polished. When exposed to sunlight, this wood loses some of its orange tint and this is an added advantage. The wood is first dug up from under the ground and then extracted.
The stump of the tree is where the burl is found. Veneers are made from this with the lathe. Thuya based jewelry boxes come in many patterns since they are not carved but have a highly glossy appearance. These boxes are shaped into different patterns and sizes and skilled artisans work on them in a number of ways.
You will also find Thuya burl in marquetry. Compared to other hardwoods, though Thuya burl is dense, it takes to brass inlay work rather easily. You can select from a single elaborate box or a set of boxes made of Thuya burl.
To make sure you have a real burlwood box look for the original characteristics of the burl such as nicks and the grain. This will be quite useful and will give out a cedar-like aroma. Along with classy looks, your dresser will smell good too.
This article was written by Rachael Celia Berlie and Ruth D’Souza Prabhu of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes show unique wood grain patterns and colors assembled into beautiful designs of breathtaking beauty. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!
























