QUALITY: Designed and manufactured by Nathaniel Cook and Jaques of London, and popularized by Howard Staunton, Staunton cut and design became the de facto standard since 1849. However Staunton is not necessarily an indicator of quality. The craftsmanship and level of detail involved in curving the material, the type and weight of material used, and the finish, are all factors that will determine whether you are looking at the finest quality in chess pieces or not.

• Ebonized Chess Pieces: Ebonizing is a special treatment given to the surface of the wood to give it a fine Ebony feel and look at an affordable price. Typically used in cafes mini-tournaments, these pieces are not very heavy.
  
  
• Rosewood Chess Pieces: Rosewood is a very strong and heavy wood that gives each chess pieces an excellent feel and durability at an affordable price. Rosewood comes in two distinct colors: Light brown (honey rosewood) and dark brown (cardinal rosewood). This material is very durable and resistant to decay.
  
  
• Ebony Wood Chess Pieces: These are the highest quality wood chess pieces you can buy. Ebony is a very compact and heavy wood of the finest quality in the market. Each piece is carefully weighted to ensure maximum stability and comfort. It is the most durable type of wood for chess pieces. White pieces are curved out of Boxwood.