Medullary rays are a natural product, which means the colour and grain of oak can vary from one piece to another, as nature is wonderfully unpredictable. Alongside the warm tones and grain that oak brings, some pieces feature unique markings called medullary rays, a beautiful way of adding character and individuality to your staircase.
Also known as Pith Rays or Tiger Masks, these markings are often mistaken for damage, repairs or watermarks, but nothing could be further from the truth. They are entirely natural, showing the timber's roots rather than a polished finish that can detract from its raw appeal.
These marks are caused by sap moving through the wood, perpendicular to the rings, as nutrition is carried from the core to the outer areas. This leaves behind silver or gold ribbons and is an important part of the tree's growing process.
Why they are prized
The presence of these markings is subjective, like many things. Far from being a defect, they are prized by many carpenters and customers for their traditional, high-end appearance, and because they indicate the finest oak from the most valued part of the tree. Some carpenters take real pride in using timber with medullary rays, as they are most prominent in quarter-sawn oak, which also reduces expanding, twisting and warping.
As with any other fine oak furniture, because we only select the finest oak for our stock, you may find some medullary rays in the timber we use.
We hope we have encouraged you to celebrate and embrace these natural markings in the wood throughout your home or property, rather than seeing them as something to discard.