Clay pipe bowls can be dated with some certainty according to their shape, size and decoration, and with even more accuracy if they feature a makers-mark on the heel, the protrusion under the bowl. The top pipe bowl above dates from 1640-60 while the one below is a fairly typical decorated one from 1780-1820.

How old are clay pipes?

The history of clay pipes dates to at least the 16th century, with some scholarly sources indicating they were produced in England around 1558, shortly after the introduction of tobacco from North America.

How do you date a clay pipe?

Clay pipe bowls can be dated with some certainty according to their shape, size and decoration, and with even more accuracy if they feature a makers-mark on the heel, the protrusion under the bowl. The top pipe bowl above dates from 1640-60 while the one below is a fairly typical decorated one from 1780-1820.

How do you cut a clay pipe with an angle grinder?

Angle Grinder Pull the grinders trigger, and lower the moving disc onto the pipe mark. Push sightly on the grinder to cut through the pipe. Slowly move the grinders disk all around the mark on the pipe to completely cut it through. Smaller clay pipes can be cut with a rotary tool and an abrasive wheel.

How long does it take for a meerschaum pipe to change color?

The use of a plug, made of clay, Meerschaum or tobacco, in the base of the bowl will collect the oils of smoking the Pipe and color it sooner. This involves smoking the tobacco load down to the level of the plug, which is to be left in the Pipe from 1-3 weeks.