the first recorded use of meerschaum for making pipes was around 1723. it quickly became prized as the perfect material for providing a cool, dry, flavorful smoke. because of the porous nature of meerschaum moisture and tobacco tar are drawn deep into the stone. meerschaum became a premium substitute for the clay pipes of the day and remains prized to this day, although since the mid-1800s briar pipes have become the most common pipes for smoking.