What are the types of ornaments and accessories used in pipe making?
The imagination of pipe makers has no limits also in this area. So many ornaments are being used in pipe making. The most common are: (1) bands/rings (varying in thickness and amount of hand work) of silver and gold, as well as non-precious metals, and (2) inserts of briar, bamboo, horn, bone, plastic, wood, etc. A pipe could also be fitted with (3) a metal cover to protect the smoke and combustion from wind, and (4) chains to connect the mouthpiece and the shank/bowl. It was the fashion in the 1970’s, particularly in France, to apply a layer of leather to the outer walls of the bowl as well as the shank (dressing the pipe, i.e.). (We’re lucky not to be in the 1970s still!
