Carob

Carob wood comes from the carob tree, Ceratonia Siiqua. With a rich history, varied uses, and desirable crafting characteristics, this wood is worthy of consideration for crafting into luxury writing instruments. I will reveal a brief history, examples of uses, and wood characteristics based on research and personal experience. The resulting review will help you determine the suitability of carob for use in crafting applications. 

The carob tree thrives in warmer climates. It grows in the wild in the Mediterranean region and has been imported for cultivation in the United States, primarily California and Arizona. Its interesting history includes adoption of its common name of St. Johns bread. This developed from the belief that John the Baptist may have consumed the seeds and pods produced by the tree in biblical reference. Also of historical interest is its role in the term carat. The seeds from its pods were used in determining the weight of precious jewels in ancient times.

Today, carob has a variety of uses beyond that of trees in general. As a food source, carob is sometimes used as an alternative to chocolate. It also used in some baking recipes and is sold in specialty stores for nutrition and medicinal purposes. The wood itself is used in cabinet making, wood turnings, and other artisan applications.

The carob tree typically grows to a height of about 50 feet with a trunk diameter of 30 to 36 inches. Carob is a hard, densely fibered wood. Its color is rich, with shades of dark to light brown and red throughout. Grain patterns are shallow waves that present contrasting colors in a pleasing fashion. Being a dense wood, it is important for the artisan to assure cutting tools are sharp when shaping on the lathe. An interesting documentary on crafting pens from exotic wood may be helpful in understanding this process.

As an exotic wood, carob exhibits the hallmark characteristics that make it appealing to artisans and consumers of beautiful wood. Its rich history and extensive use as food and other medicinal purposes add new dimensions that are interesting to ponder. Overall, carob is a fine choice when considering exotic wood to use in your crafted writing instrument or other unique creations.      

Author: Tom Herzer