Selection Guide - Play Walnut | How to Choose, Evaluate, and Buy Collectible Walnuts

Appearance Assessment

Skin: Smooth and fine, no cracks or wormholes
Color: Natural and even, no artificial dyeing
Shape: Good symmetry, no obvious defects
Texture: Clear and natural, layered patterns

Touch Test

Weight: Substantial feel, moderate density
Hardness: Hard and durable, crisp sound when tapped
Temperature: Comfortable and warm in hand
Size: Suitable for palm, easy to play with

Sound Test

Tap Sound: Crisp and clear, no noise
Impact Sound: Even sound, good durability
Tone: Pure and natural, no abnormality
Resonance: Good resonance effect

Authenticity Check

Dye Test: Wipe with damp cloth, no color loss
Polish Marks: Natural surface, no artificial polishing
Fillers: No crack fillings, complete structure
Natural Lines: Clear texture, no artificial processing

Detailed Selection Steps

Step 1: Initial Screening

First, visually inspect the walnuts and eliminate those with obvious defects. Pay attention to:

Check for cracks, wormholes, or mold spots
Observe if the skin is complete and undamaged
Confirm the color is natural, avoid dyed walnuts

Step 2: Touch Experience

Hold the walnut in your hand to feel its weight, hardness, and temperature:

Quality walnuts should feel substantial with good density
Hardness should be moderate, neither too soft nor too hard
Should feel warm and comfortable in hand
Size should fit your palm for comfortable handling

Step 3: Sound Test

Gently tap the walnut and listen to its sound:

Quality walnuts should make a crisp "ka-ka" sound when tapped
Sound should be even, without noise
Avoid walnuts with dull or abnormal sounds

Step 4: Texture Analysis

Carefully observe the texture characteristics:

Texture should be clear and natural, with distinct layers
Avoid walnuts with blurry or artificial textures
Texture depth should be moderate for good patina development

Selection Precautions

Avoid Choosing

Walnuts with obvious cracks or wormholes
Abnormal or dyed color walnuts
Too light or too heavy walnuts
Walnuts with dull or noisy sounds

Purchase Tips

Choose reputable sellers
Request detailed product information
Ask for trial play or return options
Keep purchase receipts

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What price range should beginners choose?

A: Beginners are recommended to start with mid-range walnuts ($15-75) to ensure quality while minimizing losses due to inexperience.

Q: How to tell if a walnut is dyed?

A: Gently wipe the surface with a damp cloth. If color comes off, it's likely artificially dyed. Natural patina won't fade with wiping.

Q: What size walnut should I choose?

A: The walnut should fit comfortably in your palm, typically 35-45mm in diameter. Too large or too small walnuts are not ideal for playing.