Table knives Snakewood handle

Snakewood is a rare and exotic material used for handles in Forge de Laguiole products, prized for its stunning visual appeal and remarkable durability. This unique wood is sourced from the Brosimum guianense tree, which grows in the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin. Snakewood is renowned for its distinct appearance, characterised by its reddish-brown colour and striking pattern resembling snake scales, with dark streaks running through the wood, creating an intricate, mesmerising grain.

The wood is incredibly dense and hard, making it not only visually appealing but also highly durable. While it has a subtle, earthy aroma when worked, its main allure lies in its rare, striking appearance. Snakewood is so dense that it sinks in water, which is quite unusual for wood. A fascinating fact about snakewood is that it is one of the densest woods in the world, often considered among the most challenging to work with, making it all the more valuable and sought-after for fine craftsmanship.