Graphite purity determines how cleanly a pencil lays down tone and how smoothly it blends. Caran d'Ache sources exceptionally pure graphite for the Grafwood line, eliminating the gritty particles that create unwanted texture in gradations. This translates to seamless tonal transitions when building form and atmosphere, shadows deepen without streaking, highlights lift cleanly without disturbing surrounding values. Hexagonal barrels prevent rolling during extended sessions while providing comfortable grip positioning. The graphite core bonds firmly to its cedar casing, resisting breakage during sharpening and eliminating the frustration of crumbling leads mid-stroke. Whether you're rendering precise botanical studies or exploring gestural figure work, Grafwood pencils respond predictably to your pressure and technique. HB Lead. Made in Switzerland. Established in Geneva in 1915, Caran d’Ache is a privately owned family company, making pencils to the high Swiss standard. Considered somewhat of a luxury brand, they are known for creating the first water-soluble pencils and inventing the clutch pencil.