Diyar wood stands out for small, high precision objects like chess pieces. It has the density, fine grain, and natural balance needed when weight, symmetry, and durability matter most.
At LavishWood, we prepare Diyar wood with extreme care. Even minor defects show up immediately in turned pieces, so there is no room for shortcuts.
Selection of Mature Diyar Trees
Quality starts with mature timber. We only work with slow grown, fully matured Diyar trees. Mature wood has uniform grain and consistent density from core to outer layers.
This consistency matters for chess pieces that must match in weight and feel across the entire set. When you pick up a knight and then a bishop, they should feel like they belong together.
Careful Harvesting
Diyar trees are harvested under controlled conditions. Cutting happens during low sap flow periods when moisture content is naturally lower. This reduces internal tension and lowers the risk of hairline cracks during turning.
Log Breakdown and Blanking
Logs are processed quickly after harvest. They are cut into small billets sized for chess piece blanks. Grain direction is carefully aligned along the length of each billet.
Correct grain alignment prevents splitting at thin sections like the necks and collars of knights and bishops. This is where inferior wood fails.
Slow Air Seasoning
Air seasoning is required for Diyar wood. Billets are stacked with spacers and stored in shaded, dry areas with good airflow. Seasoning takes 6 to 18 months depending on thickness.
Slow drying preserves strength and keeps the wood stable. Rushing this step creates internal stress that shows up later when the piece is turned on the lathe.
Controlled Kiln Drying
After air seasoning, billets go into the kiln. Final moisture is reduced to 6 to 8 percent, lower than standard furniture wood. Small precision parts need this level of stability.
Heat cycles are gentle and gradual. According to USDA Forest Products Laboratory, proper kiln schedules are critical for preventing defects in dense hardwoods.
Resting and Stress Release
Diyar wood is rested after drying. Billets sit for several weeks while any movement or cracking is identified. Only stable billets are approved for production. Unstable wood never makes it into our chess sets.
Turning and Shaping
Chess pieces are shaped on precision lathes. Turning happens in multiple passes with tools kept razor sharp. Diyar wood cuts cleanly and holds fine detail without tearing or chipping.
The profiles are cut slowly. Each piece goes through the same process to ensure consistency across the set. This level of precision is what separates handcrafted pieces from mass produced alternatives.
Hand Sanding and Detailing
After machine turning comes hand work. Fine grit sanding is used on every surface. Symmetry is checked by hand and eye. Each piece is visually matched within the set.
Uniformity matters. Every pawn must feel the same. Every knight must balance the same way. You can see this attention to detail in our premium chess collections.
Weighting and Balancing
Proper balance defines premium chess pieces. Internal weighting is added where required. Bases are leveled precisely before felt is applied.
Diyar wood supports this weighting without cracking or losing structural integrity. The result is a piece that feels solid and centered when placed on the board.
Finishing and Protection
Finishing enhances both touch and durability. We use natural polish or light sealers that keep the grain visible and tactile. The finish resists sweat and handling while staying smooth even after years of play.
Learn more about our approach to premium wood selection and traditional craftsmanship.
Why Diyar Wood Works for Chess Pieces
Diyar wood is chosen for performance, not appearance alone. It offers:
- High density for satisfying weight
- Fine grain for sharp, clean profiles
- Excellent dimensional stability
- Long service life under constant handling
At LavishWood, every chess piece starts with wood that has been carefully selected, slowly dried, and expertly prepared. The turning and finishing come later. The foundation is built during preparation.
That foundation is what you feel when you move a piece across the board. It is the difference between a chess set and an heirloom.
Explore our handcrafted gaming tables or discover more about custom chess commissions.
