Mokume gane

Mokume gane was developed in the 1600s in Japan, allegedly by an Akita prefecture metalsmith named Denbei Shoami (1651 to 1728). He used the mokume gane technique to dress up samurai swords.
The mokume gane technique involves fusing several layers of different metals, and artistically exposing sections of lower layers. The metal is often made to display a pattern that mimics wood grain. A variety of metals can be used to give different arrays of coloration.
Layers of metal are pressed together and fused with heat. The forged layers are carved to expose lower layers and are then pressed again. The carving and pressing is repeated to develop the pattern. 

Today, some of the finest mokume in the world is made here in the USA, and William Henry is proud to offer a range of this material on our collections. Our mokume is generally made with copper, brass, and nickel silver in either a 45 or 89 layer billet, forged and patterned by hand.

Box Elder Burl

Box Elder is a species of maple native to North America. The name "Box Elder" is based upon the similarity of its whitish wood to that of boxwood. This tree can grow up to 80 feet, and its burl can develop an intricate maze of fibers that, once sanded and polished, explodes in a mesmerizing, stormy tangle of colors and patterns. This is one of William Henry's most distinctive woods; even the smallest section can contain its own individual and unique passion and personality. All of our woods are sourced responsibly.

Smoky Quartz

Smoky quartz is a grey, translucent variety of quartz. It ranges in clarity from almost complete transparency to a brownish-gray crystal that is almost opaque.
Smoky Quartz was known as a Stone of Power. To the ancient Druids, it was sacred and signified the potent dark power of Earth gods and goddesses.