Swiss Pear

Pyrus communis, Sorbus domestica, Sorbus torminalis

Trade Names

Swiss Pear, Common Pear, Wild Servicetree, Sorbtree

Similar Woods

Steamed Hard Maple

Origin

Europe

Range

Swiss Pear is a trade name for the Wild Servicetree, Sorb and Common Pear species which cannot be differentiated as wood. The Wild Servicetree is the most frequently used type of wood, Sorb and Pear being less common. The majority of the wood worked today comes from France but it also occurs in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. Due to the strong demand early in the nineties in relation to the low occurrence of this species, the prices for logs have exploded so that Pear belongs to the most expensive species in the world. Since 2002, however, the demand for this species has been decreasing greatly due to these high prices.

Uses

Over the last years Pear has become one of the most demanded veneer species in Europe. Used for bedroom furniture, living-room furniture, paneling and office furniture. Also used for highest quality interior fixtures for banks, insurances and other representative buildings.

Properties

Very elegant wood. Unsteamed the wood is white. The warm reddish tone is only achieved by steaming. Many trunks develop brown heart and as a result fail to qualify for exclusive veneer. The development of ne hairs is just as frequent as the guring which gives the veneer life but unfortunately these still are not sufficiently accepted.

Machining

Pear is easy to machine with all tools.

Seasoning

Drying is a very slow process and should be carried out with great care.

Finishing

Pear takes any kind of surface finish well. Due to its plain texture it should be given a glossy or even polished finish.

Jointing

Gluing pear presents no difficulties. Screws and nails hold firmly but should be pre-drilled.
071