What Makes a Chess Set ‘Heirloom Quality’?

When it comes to buying a chess set, many customers are looking not just for something to play on, but for something that can be treasured for years to come – and possibly even passed down through generations. These are often described as "heirloom-quality" chess sets. But what exactly qualifies a set for that title?

In this post, we’ll explore the features that distinguish an heirloom-quality chess set from an ordinary one, and what you should look for if you’re in the market for something truly special.

Exceptional Craftsmanship

At the heart of any heirloom-quality chess set is fine craftsmanship. These aren’t mass-produced sets stamped out by machine – they are painstakingly carved and turned by skilled artisans, often by hand. The attention to detail in the knights, the uniformity of the pieces, and the smoothness of each curve are all signs of careful, experienced workmanship.

Hand-carving takes time and skill, particularly when it comes to more intricate pieces such as the knight. In many luxury sets, all four knights are carved by the same craftsman to ensure visual consistency across the set – a hallmark of quality.

High-Grade Materials

A true heirloom set uses premium materials. In wooden chess sets, this typically means boxwood paired with exotic hardwoods such as ebony, rosewood, or sheesham. These woods are not only aesthetically beautiful, with rich grains and deep natural colour, but also extremely hard-wearing, which is essential for a set that’s expected to last for decades.

The chessboard is just as important. Boards made with high-quality wood veneers – such as walnut, maple, or palisander – and finished with satin or gloss lacquer offer both beauty and resilience.

Metal and stone sets can also be considered heirloom quality, so long as the materials are durable and the craftsmanship is top-tier.

Balanced and Weighted Pieces

A satisfying game of chess is greatly enhanced by the feel of the pieces. Heirloom-quality sets tend to be moderate to heavily weighted, giving each move a sense of intention and control. The weight also helps pieces stay upright and resist tipping, which reduces wear and tear over time.

Felted bases are another important feature – they protect both the chessboard and the pieces themselves, helping to preserve their condition over years of use.

The majority of our sets feature both of these, with felted bases for smooth movement and additional weighting for the perfect balance.

Timeless Design

Heirloom chess sets typically follow the Staunton design – the internationally recognised standard for chess pieces. This design remains popular not only for its elegance and familiarity, but also because it has stood the test of time. A good Staunton set is as relevant now as it was 150 years ago.

Some heirloom sets may include subtle design variations or hand-finished touches that make them unique, but they will always favour timelessness over trendiness.

Presentation and Protection

Heirloom sets often come with proper storage solutions, such as a solid wooden case or a luxury chessboard with a drawer. These aren’t just practical – they add to the overall sense of quality and ensure the set can be kept safe when not in use.

Packaging is another indicator. A set that comes with a certificate of authenticity or is presented in a fitted case is far more likely to be something worth holding onto.

Built to Last

At its core, an heirloom-quality chess set is one that is built to be enjoyed now and passed on later. That means using long-lasting materials, impeccable construction methods, and a design that won’t go out of fashion.

When you invest in a set like this, you’re not just buying a game – you’re acquiring a piece of craftsmanship that could become part of your family’s history. 

We understand that decisions like these are a very careful process, which is why we are always more than happy to assist you in finding the perfect chess set that you'll be 100% happy with.

Please don't hesitate to contact us through email, WhatsApp, or phone if you're having difficulty deciding which chess set is best for your needs.