In part one of this article, we explored the origins of the Koa tree and its importance to the Hawaiian islands. Now we'll look at how the wood from this rare tree is allowed to be acquired and the unique varieties of its grain.
Different lands produce different trees and those trees provide unique woods for the rest of the world. Due to the makeup of chemicals and elements within a region different woods can only be grown in specific areas.
Koa Wood is native to Hawaii and found only in the Hawaiian Islands. Because of the beauty these trees have in their wood they are illegal to cut down now that they have been over harvested. Koa wood can be procured from trees that have fallen on their own but they cannot be harvested.
Koa wood has unique characteristics that the wood market has categorized into three grades of Koa wood:
- Select Koa — straightest grain with rich color
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Curly Koa — variable grain almost wavy in texture with rich colors and 3d highlights
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Premium Curly Koa or Tiger Koa — extreme color with many 3d highlights and translucent tones
Koa trees can grow to be very large. They can grow a few hundred feet tall and diameters over 10 feet wide. Many of the Koa trees do not make it this far because they have been harvested. Due to their enormous size and natural resistance to salt water their trunks were used for many years to make canoes to use as durable ocean vessels. The first Surfboard was most likely Koa wood.
Koa wood is extremely coveted and its beauty is unsurpassed. Our rings with Koa Wood are sure to be one of a kind as each tree wood is different reflecting the environment it grew in. They will be sure to impress and now with your knowledge of Koa wood you can explain the importance of the wood embedded in your titanium ring.
Have you seen our collection of Koa and Hawaiian wood rings? View them by clicking here.
Did you know that titanium has only been available to the public since 1988? Before its first public appearance, titanium was classified by the military for use in things such as the SR-71 Black Bird fighter jet and Russian submarines. Not unlike the government, we see a lot of value in titanium. Today it is used in the creation of things like golf clubs and airplanes. We think titanium is the absolute best metal to use when making jewelry and here’s why:
Strength and Weight of Titanium
After all, Titanium’s name is derived from the Greek Titans. Known for their large size and great strength, the Titans were the perfect namesake. Titanium has the highest strength-to-density ratio of any metal. This means that even though it is extremely lightweight, you can expect your Titanium ring to last forever. In its natural state, Titanium is as strong as steel, but weighs less than half. In comparison, white gold and silver are easily dented when worn daily. Titanium rings are ideal for those who work outdoors or in active environments, as they will not lose their shape, break, or dent like rings made from gold or silver.
Style
Titanium looks a lot like white gold or silver. But because of its strength, we are able to utilize titanium in a variety of different ring designs. We can alter the design of your ring to fit your personal style. They are adaptable for either men or women, and can be made formal or decorative. You are able to choose other materials to incorporate into your rings as well. From gold and silver, to deeply colored koa wood or gemstone inlays, you will be able to find a custom design that will appeal to your individual style.
Bio-compatibility
Some metals are known to turn your finger green or cause allergic reactions. This is because they are mixed with other metals that don’t react well with human skin. Titanium is sometimes combined with other metals for greater strength and durability but remains 100% hypoallergenic. It’s so safe for humans that it is even used in the creation of surgical implants.
Affordability
Compared to gold and silver, titanium is more widely available. Because of this, we can provide it to you at a much lower price. Titanium can be found and used in its natural state without any modification or added metals (unless you want us to!).
For more information on titanium bands and rings, check out our website.
My respect for the Koa tree has grown 100-fold in my research of this ancient symbol of strength and wisdom and its prized wood. The rich history surrounding Koa made me want to study the origin of every tree on the planet, but something told me none would compare to this mighty breed. Sprouting from what must have been lava; one Koa seed quickly canopied the Hawaiian Islands and became a lifeline not only for the ecosystem but for its not-yet-present human inhabitants.
A true unsolvable mystery how the first Koa seed arrived to the islands and the fact is it grows nowhere else naturally. Was it a floating gift from Mother Ocean? A stow-away in a storm-carried bird? No one will ever know for sure. What is known is that the Koa tree would provide added prosperity and sophistication to the culture and of its native settlers.
The trees began their journey by cultivating fertile soil for farming with strong aerating root systems and nitrogen-rich leaf compost. The Koa's umbrella-like awnings manipulated the climate, creating micro environments and sanctuaries for shade species at many elevations. Dry lava deserts were transformed into lush tropical forests and by the time bipeds set foot on Hawaii's shore, the landscape was alive with a habitat of flourishing plant life, birds, and insects along with visiting turtles and seals.
Continue reading in Koa Wood – Part Two
Did you know we offer a rich collection of Koa and Hawaiian wood rings? Click here to see them.
