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