Dendrochronology
by Moretto Violins
What is Dendrochronology?
Dendrochronology is the scientific dating of wood by measuring annual growth rings. Each ring represents one year of growth. By comparing the pattern of rings on a violin’s top plate with established reference chronologies from worldwide forests, it is possible to determine the earliest possible year the tree was cut or TPQ (terminus post quem).
In simple terms: the violin’s wood carries a natural timestamp, just like a fingerprint. By matching its ring pattern to regional forest records, we determine whether the wood is compatible with a specific historical period.
Why Perform Dendrochronology?
- Establish objective chronological compatibility
- Support or challenge historical attributions
- Identify reused or inconsistent wood
- Provide scientific documentation before certification or sale
- Increase transparency and market confidence
Dendrochronology does not attribute authorship by itself. However, it can confirm whether an instrument is chronologically possible — or definitively impossible — for a claimed maker.
Who This Service Is For
- Professional violinists seeking clarity about their instrument
- Collectors and investors requiring objective documentation
- Dealers preparing instruments for sale
- Luthiers requiring chronological support
- Owners considering certification or auction submission
How the Analysis Is Performed
High‑resolution images of the spruce top are used to measure each visible growth ring. These measurements are converted into a numerical sequence and statistically compared with reference datasets from multiple spruce regions.
Statistical indicators (correlation values, t‑values, GLK and raw correlation) are evaluated according to established dendrochronological criteria. Only stable and reproducible matches are accepted.
Image Requirements
- Minimum 4000px image width (48MP smartphone recommended)
- Camera perfectly perpendicular to the top plate surface
- Diffuse, even lighting
- Tailpiece and strings removed
- Millimetre scale reference visible
See the example in the listing images. If in doubt, we offer preliminary image evaluation before ordering.
Report options
Full Scientific Dendrochronology Report
- Comprehensive multi‑page document
- Detailed methodology and equipment description
- Expanded statistical analysis
- High‑resolution graphs and data tables
- Formatted for professional certification processes
- Includes also the Basic Report
Recommended for high‑value instruments and formal authentication procedures.
Basic Report
- One‑page A4 professional summary
- Species identification
- Statistical results (CorrC, t, GLK, RWCC)
- Determination of TPQ
- Graphical correlation illustration
Suitable for private owners and preliminary evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some common questions about dendro.
No. It establishes chronological compatibility only. Attribution requires stylistic and historical expertise.
No. The analysis is entirely non‑invasive. But removing the tailpiece and strings is mandatory for full ring access.
It may strengthen documentation and market confidence when compatible with historical claims.
Scientific integrity requires stating this clearly. Not all instruments produce definitive results. You pay only for conclusive results.
Yes. All materials are handled confidentially by Moretto Violins.
Typically 5–10 working days after image approval.