Found in the Swiss Alps at altitudes between 4,000 and 6,000 feet, this rare, slow-growing species (Picea Abies) is light in color and weight, but rigid and close-grained, making it unbelievably responsive. Felled only during the winter and before a new moon, it is stored at high altitude for at least a year before milling–the same traditional cutting method used by the famous violin makers of Europe.