Risk Guide · Natural change & artificial ageing

Patina is a process, not a filter.

Consider colour, surface behaviour and handling history together when distinguishing natural patina from artificial ageing.

01 / FIELD NOTES

Natural colour change

Handling, brushing and natural oxidation can gradually change a walnut’s colour and surface. The rate and result depend on the pair, care and conditions; there is no universal timetable.

02 / FIELD NOTES

Artificial ageing

Artificial ageing creates the appearance of a long handling history. A dark colour or bright surface alone cannot establish age. Look at the texture, colour transitions, surface response and the supporting history together.

03 / FIELD NOTES

Yellow patches are a different issue

A local yellow patch, concealed yellowing, ordinary natural colour variation and artificial ageing are different situations. Inspect the location, structure and changes over time.

If concealed yellowing becomes visible after a purchase, preserve the original records and contact us for assessment. Do not try to hide the change through oil, chemicals or reshaping.

A closer conversation

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