Briar

BRIAR  (Erica arborea)

Common Names : Briar (burl types: plateaux and ébauchon)

Distribution: Europe (Mediterranean region)

Color/Appearance : In pipe-making, there are two types of burl sections: ébauchon, and plateaux. Ébauchon burl blocks are usually rectangular in shape and cut from the center of the burl. They tend to have a more random grain pattern and are the least expensive. Plateaux burl blocks are cut from the outer edge of the burl, and are usually in a quarter-round shape which still includes the bark on the outside edge. They tend to have a more consistent grain pattern, and are more expensive than ébauchon burl blanks.

 Janka hardness : 2090 lbf

Density : 4.75 lb/lbf

Shrinkage: 1

Radial (thickness): 6.1%

Tangential (width): 8.5%,

Volumetric (total): 15.6%,

T/R Ratio (width to depth): 1.4

Allergies/toxicity: Besides the standard health risks associated with any type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been associated with Briar.

Controlled species : CITES : No, l’IUCN : No

Common uses : Turned objects, knife and gun grips, inlay, and other small specialty items.