Replies

1. 
   PeteMohr | Aug 10, 2011 08:24am | #1

   Chatoyance (or luster). 

   There's a good explaination in FWW 182 pg. 26

   pete

1. 
   samarafc | Aug 10, 2011 05:35pm | #2

   If you can tell me the word used to explain this illusion that would be great. I cannot afford to buy the FW collection as so would need to hunt a copy of issue 182.

   Thanks,

   Rich

1. 
   DonStephan | Aug 10, 2011 07:52pm | #3

   As Pete said, the word is chatoyance.  Some woods look lighter or darker depending on the orientation of the light source, the wood, and your eye.  I think mahogany commonly shows chatoyance, cherry sometimes.  Some will view it as a defect, some a wonder of nature. 

2. 
   PeteMohr | Aug 11, 2011 10:06am | #4

   Just Google "Chatoyance" . There are many articles available.

   pete

1. 
   samarafc | Aug 11, 2011 08:10pm | #6

   Thanks for answering my question. I did not realize you answered my my question in your first response. I thought Chatoyance was an online nickname or handle from the CB days.

   Rich

2. 
   SgianDubh | Aug 11, 2011 02:59pm | #5

   Chatoyance

   Rich, you'll find some discussion and photographed examples on the way light is refracted or reflected with polished wood on the link below. The web page is a short general discussion on edge joinery considerations in solid wood. The bit on chatoyance is about two thirds or more down. Link: http://www.richardjonesfurniture.com/Articles/panel-glue-ups/panel-glue-ups.html Slainte.

1. 
   samarafc | Aug 15, 2011 09:39pm | #8

   Again I want to thank all those who have taken the time to respond to my surprise/ dilema. I was to deliver the the custom piece this A.M. I did and was prepeared to discuss the Phenomana. I carried the piece to its final destination and being honest I tried to show how the piece might appear if were placed in a different position. None ..no difference. I asked if it may be placed elsewhere, no, it was ordered for this place. I chose a different place in the house to show it it could be moved. I watched the light and no shift in color. I saw the change in my shop and home before I left to make the delivery. Chatoyance is  mysterious indeed.

   Rich

3. 
   samarafc | Aug 11, 2011 08:15pm | #7

   Chatoyance

   Thanks for the advice and to all the replies. The most unfortuate aspect of this Is that the top includes overlapping inlays and so after six wait for the customer I need to start over on the top.

   Rich