Q&A

 

Frequently Asked Questions — Mountain & Palm

1. What exactly are Wenwan walnuts?

Wenwan walnuts are traditional Chinese scholar's objects, held in the palm and gently handled over time. Unlike ordinary walnuts, they are harvested specifically for their thick shells, deep textures, and symmetrical shapes. With regular, careful handling, they develop a rich, amber-like patina — a natural polish that grows deeper and more beautiful with each passing year. They are not mere objects, but quiet companions for the hands and the mind.

2. How do I choose my first pair of walnuts?

For beginners, we recommend starting with a pair that feels comfortable in your hands. Consider these three factors:

  • Size: Your palm size determines the ideal walnut size. A walnut that is too large will be hard to rotate; one that is too small will lack presence. As a general guide, if your palm width is under 8cm, start with a walnut size around 38-40mm.

  • Texture: Deeper grooves offer more tactile feedback and are ideal for those who enjoy the sensory experience of handling. Shallower textures are smoother and easier for beginners to manage.

  • Pairing: Look for a well-matched pair — similar size, shape, and color. A good pairing enhances both the visual appeal and the handling experience.

If you are unsure, explore our The First Hold collection, designed specifically for beginners.

3. Are these walnuts ready to use when they arrive?

Yes. Every pair in our Mountain & Palm collection arrives pre-conditioned — gently cleaned and lightly pre-polished to a warm, matte finish. This means you can begin your patina journey the moment they arrive. No tedious prep work. Just clean hands, a quiet moment, and your full attention.

4. How long does it take to see the patina?

Patina is a gradual process — a reflection of time, patience, and consistent care. Here is a general timeline:

  • First 3 months: The surface begins to warm, taking on a subtle sheen.

  • 6–12 months: A noticeable amber glow starts to develop.

  • 2–3 years: Deep, rich patina with a glass-like luster begins to emerge.

  • 5+ years: A mature, museum-quality finish.

The key is daily, gentle handling with clean, dry hands. There are no shortcuts to a beautiful patina — only patience.

5. How should I care for my walnuts?

Caring for your walnuts is simple. Follow these three rules:

  • Clean hands always: Handle your walnuts only with clean, dry hands. Oils, dirt, or moisture from your hands can stain the surface unevenly. If your hands tend to sweat, consider wearing thin cotton gloves during handling.

  • Brush regularly: Use a soft-bristled brush (included with some of our pairs) to gently clean the grooves and remove dust after each handling session.

  • Avoid moisture: Keep your walnuts away from water, excessive humidity, and direct sunlight. If they become damp, pat them dry with a soft cloth and let them air-dry naturally at room temperature.

For a complete guide, please see our Walnut Care Guide.

6. Do you offer walnuts for experienced collectors?

Yes. Our The Curator's Pick and Wild Gems collections feature premium-grade walnuts with superior pairing, deeper textures, and rare or wild-sourced origins. These are for collectors who have refined their taste and seek something truly exceptional.

7. What makes a walnut pair "collector-grade"?

A collector-grade walnut pair is defined by three criteria:

  • Perfect symmetry: The two walnuts match each other closely in size, shape, and color.

  • Superior texture: Deep, well-defined grooves with a thick, sturdy shell.

  • Rarity: Wild-harvested, naturally formed, or exceptionally large specimens. These are not mass-produced — they are found, not farmed.

8. What is your return policy for walnuts?

We offer a 30-day return policy from the date you receive your order. To be eligible for a return:

  • Walnuts must be returned in their original, unused condition (no signs of handling or wear).

  • Please contact us at support@easternara.com to initiate a return. We will guide you through the process.

  • Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the item is defective or damaged upon arrival.

9. How long does shipping take?

  • United States: 7–12 business days

  • Europe: 7–14 business days

  • Other regions: Please contact us for estimated delivery times

All orders are shipped from our fulfillment center in Portland, Oregon, USA.

10. Do you charge customs fees or import duties?

  • For EU customers: All applicable customs duties and taxes are calculated and displayed at checkout. You will not be asked to pay additional fees upon delivery.

  • For US customers: We do not charge sales tax outside of states where we have a legal nexus.

If you have specific questions about duties, please email us and we will assist you.

11. I cannot find what I am looking for. Can you source a specific pair for me?

Absolutely. At EasternAra, we work closely with artisan networks across China. If you are looking for a specific size, texture, or origin that is not yet in our collection, send us an email at support@easternara.com — we would be happy to search, source, or even commission a custom pair for you.