What are Koshi wind chimes? How to spot authentic Koshi chimes
Nothing sounds as good or lasts as long as an authentic Koshi Chime.
Representing the four elements – Earth, Water, Air, and Fire – the soothing sound of these elegant bamboo wind chimes brings tranquillity to any space, indoors or out. Precision-tuned and meticulously handcrafted at an artisan workshop in the French Pyrenees, the mesmerising melody of authentic Koshi Chimes instantly enchants the listener.
But, due to the growing popularity of these beautiful bamboo wind chimes around the world, cheap imitations of Koshi Chimes have recently flooded the market. These imitators may look similar to the real thing, but they fall far short in both sound and quality.
So how do you ensure you’re purchasing a genuine Koshi Chime? In this guide, we’ll explore what distinguishes an authentic Koshi Chime from a fake – and why choosing the genuine article is well worth the investment.
What are Koshi wind chimes?
Authentic Koshi wind chimes are handcrafted in a French workshop by skilled artisans. Every chime is precision-tuned to create rich melodies, with layered overtones with a long-lasting resonance. The tunes are inspired by the elements, each with their own sound: Terra (Earth), Aqua (Water), Aria (Air), and Ignis (Fire).Behind the brand is Kabir, a lover of sound and the inventor of the original Shanti chimes, who further developed his design and invented the Koshi chimes in 2009. Koshi chimes are meticulously crafted to the millimetre and obey the “golden ratio” – resulting in their beautiful, aesthetically pleasing proportions and signature sound. In contrast, imitations lack the craftsmanship and precision tuning required to produce the same sound and resonance as genuine Koshi Chime.
The soothing melodies of Koshi Chimes are loved by sound healing therapists, yoga studios, and meditation spaces and make a lovely addition to anyone’s home or garden.
What’s the difference between authentic Koshi Chimes and imitations?
Genuine Koshi Chimes are handcrafted in France in a workshop at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains. (Check the box for the ‘Origine France Garantie number’). Copies, on the other hand, often originate from mass-production factories and lack the artisanal touch of the originals.Koshi wind chimes are made from high-quality bamboo veneer. The resonance tube is formed from thin layers of bamboo, treated with natural oil to give it a smooth finish and protect it from the elements. Inside, finely tuned chime rods are securely fixed to the base of the tube, ensuring durability and clarity of sound. Imitation Koshi Chimes are made from cheaper materials that are less elegant and do not have the same sound.
Each chime is precisely tuned to one of four different melodies:
Terra (Earth) – G C E F G C E G
Aqua (Water) – A D F G A D F A / Pentatonic
Aria (Air) – A C E A B C E B
Ignis (Fire) – G B D G B D G A / Pentatonic
Each chime has a full, lasting sound, and when all four chimes are played together, they create a beautiful, harmonious melody. In contrast, fakes often lack precision tuning, resulting in a flat or dissonant sound individually and failing to resonate harmoniously.
Always look for the Koshi logo on the chime and packaging. Genuine Koshi Chimes are packaged thoughtfully, reflecting the care and quality of the product inside. If the packaging appears generic or lacks the brand name, it’s likely a copy.
Why choose an authentic Koshi Chime?
With proper care, an authentic Koshi Chime can last a lifetime. Its materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensure that it remains in tune, even after years of use. Fake chimes simply cannot replicate the beauty or auditory magic of a real Koshi Chime.Wind Chimes Australia only stocks authentic Koshi Chimes. By choosing an authentic Koshi Chime, you’re supporting artisans and their dedication to creating sustainable, high-quality instruments.