Habit Morta

Habit Morta

Habit Morta: A Unique Material in the World of Woodworking

Habit Morta, a material with a unique place in the world of woodworking, refers to semi-petrified oak found underground beneath large bodies of water. Its discovery dates back to the 16th century and has amazed us ever since with its amazing properties.

One of the best sources for morta is peat bogs, where the acidic and oxygen-deprived conditions of the water have resulted in pieces of oak that are hard and durable. The wood's exposure to mineral-rich waters has provided it with a dark, distinct, and beautiful color. Over the past few centuries, woodworkers have taken advantage of these properties and used the material for a variety of items, including pipes, jewelry, and even watches.

The challenges associated with working with morta cannot be overstated. As it is an ancient material, one never knows what to expect when working with it. It is neither completely petrified nor completely dead, making it difficult to work with. The wood is brittle and prone to cracking, thus requiring a great deal of patience and skill when working with it. Despite all of these difficulties, it is a truly remarkable and worth-working material.

One major advantage of morta is its natural ability to absorb and buffer moisture. Humidity swings are common in cigar humidors, and the tobacco leaves can become vulnerable to mold if the air is too damp. Precisely because of these properties, many cigar smokers prefer morta humidors since the wood effectively holds enough moisture and buffers the humidity to keep the tobacco at its peak flavor and aging potential.

Another benefit of morta is its elegant, mysterious appearance. The color of morta ranges from deep black to dark brown with a natural marbling pattern running through it, creating a sense of depth and texture- a look that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

If you are venturing into morta for the first time, you have to appreciate that it can be costly. The rarity of the material combined with its difficulty in working with makes it a luxury material. But with proper care, morta pieces can last for centuries, offering a connection to the past that is truly unique.

In conclusion, morta is a material unlike any other in the world of woodworking. Its unique composition and history demand a high level of respect from those who work with it, but its incredible appearance and performance make it well worth the effort. Whether you're making a watch, a pipe, or a cigar humidor, using morta is an opportunity to connect with history and place yourself among a small and dedicated group of artisans.