Model: Massage beads
Detailed model description
The Massage model is a variation of the Cushion model, with additional carving in the form of small rounded cuts on every link. These recesses gave the model its popular name, because spinning and flipping the beads creates the sensation of a light finger massage.
Features and intended use
The defining feature of this model is its unusual tactile feel. The characteristic shape gives the fingers an extra texture, making spinning more engaging. In its handling and movement it remains very close to classic Cushions , so it works equally well for different spins and ordinary flips.
Additional information based on collectors’ real-world experience
Massage beads come in several variations. There is a classic form.
There are also subtly altered signature versions, including those made by Zhenya Kartavykh.
Another signature interpretation is made by Roman, the creator of the Flip one Chetki channel.
Massage beads made from expensive materials such as mammoth ivory , elephant ivory , sperm-whale tooth and walrus ivory are quite rare among collectors. Such pieces are considered exceptional and are highly valued in collections.
The most common materials for Massage beads are Aramith billiard balls, Soviet ebonite and coloured German ebonite . Examples made from Aramith bowling balls can also be found.
The difficulty of making this model lies in the large number of cuts. Producing them demands considerable time from the maker, and polishing is more demanding still: every recess must be finished evenly and merge perfectly with the overall surface of the piece.