Nontronnaise Cutlery: an exceptional living heritage in the heart of Périgord

A prestigious history: the oldest cutlery factory in France

The Nontron knife , originating from the eponymous village, is recognized as the oldest French knife. The first traces of it can be found in the 13th century under the name "Pierregord knives".

This expertise emerged thanks to local natural resources: nontronite iron ore, boxwood forests, and the rivers needed for tempering. As early as the 18th century, Nontron had several cutlery workshops, but only the Coutellerie Nontronnaise has survived the centuries to this day.

Since 1928, this artisan house has continued its activity. Owned by the Forge de Laguiole since the 1990s, it employs around twenty artisans and is recognized as a Living Heritage Company .

Artisanal know-how passed down and protected

Each Nontron knife is crafted through a rigorous process of around forty steps. The blades, made of T12 stainless steel, XC75 carbon, or Damascus steel, are precision-forged.

The handles are turned from Périgord boxwood that has been dried for at least four years, or from noble materials such as walnut, Corian®, or compressed fabric. Each piece is unique and handcrafted.

The famous pyrography – Nontron's aesthetic signature – adorns the handles with its traditional “flies” and patterns, perpetuating the brand's visual identity.

A workshop open to its territory

Since 2000, Coutellerie Nontronnaise has welcomed the public into a contemporary workshop designed by Luc-Arsène Henry. This bright space allows visitors to discover the different stages of manufacturing and interact with the artisans.

The brand also offers educational workshops where visitors can learn about pyrography or assemble their own folding knife.

Innovation in the service of a thousand-year-old tradition

True to its heritage, Coutellerie Nontronnaise collaborates with designers such as Christian Ghion and Olivier Gagnère to offer contemporary collections. It has successfully combined modern design and artisanal techniques to create unique and timeless pieces, such as the “Dalva” model in Limoges porcelain.

Cultural and national recognition

The brand is one of the pillars of the "Fête du Couteau," a national event held every summer in Nontron. Its EPV label highlights the excellence and rarity of its expertise, passed on with passion and rigor.

Why choose a Nontron knife?

• An object born from a history dating back to the Middle Ages

• A unique and recognizable design, marked by pyrography

• 100% French artisanal production with EPV certification

• Noble materials selected for their quality and durability

Conclusion

Coutellerie Nontronnaise doesn't just make knives: it transmits an art of living. As retailers at Lokayah , we are proud to offer you these exceptional objects, reflections of French heritage and perfect for those seeking authenticity, elegance, and durability.