Wallenstein Grading System

Wallenstein pipes completed since the 2006 Chicago Pipe Show come under the grading system described below. The corresponding symbols are stamped or lasered onto the respective pipe. A pearl embedded into the wood is the distinctive mark of the highest quality pipe – “Mermaid“.

This grading system classes a pipe as flawless if no spots or sandpits are visible to the naked eye.

PRAWN:	wood not flawless, reveals larger spots
CONCH:	wood not flawless, reveals smaller spots  (formerly 2 PRAWNS )
SCALLOP:	smaller spots, good grain
CRAB:	wood virtually flawless, good grain  (formerly 2 PRAWNS )
LOBSTER:	wood virtually flawless, excellent grain
MERMAID:	the perfect pipe!