Why Authentic Chukum Matters — And How to Tell If You’re Getting the Real Thing

Chukum is more than just a finish—it’s a centuries-old art form. Originally developed by the Mayans in the Yucatán, Chukum is a natural lime-based plaster infused with the resin of the Chukum tree (Havardia albicans). It’s breathable, sustainable, and alive—with a patina that evolves over time, bringing your surfaces to life in a way no synthetic finish can replicate.

At Chukum USA, we are proud to be the original modern-day manufacturer of true Chukum. Our formula is untampered, authentic, and handcrafted using the same artisanal methods still practiced in the Yucatán today. We don’t cut corners. We don’t use shortcuts. And we don’t rebrand generic lime plaster with the Chukum name.

If you’re looking to work with real Chukum, here’s what you need to know—and how to spot the fakes.

What Makes Chukum “Real”?

Real Chukum is defined by one key ingredient: Chukum resin water.

This reddish liquid is extracted from the bark of the Chukum tree, boiled and filtered through a traditional process. It’s the defining component that gives Chukum its signature tone, its antimicrobial properties, and its ability to patina and evolve over time.

After years of lab testing and formulation, we’ve found there is no way to replicate authentic Chukum without real Chukum resin water. Any company selling “Chukum-style plaster” or lime plaster without it is simply using the name for marketing—not for substance.

The Chukum USA Difference

We are not a rebranded microcement company or a supplier mixing dyes into lime. We are the source. Our production is rooted in the Yucatán, and we honor the same techniques used for centuries. We bring that tradition directly to modern designers, builders, and homeowners across the U.S. and beyond.

Look for the Chukum USA tree logo on your products to know you’re getting the real thing. If it doesn’t come with Chukum resin water, it’s not authentic. Period.

Two Types of Chukum — Know the Difference

We’ve made Chukum easy to use and apply by offering two specialized products:

1. Chukum Base

This is our thicker, coarser blend designed for exteriors and wet areas. It grips beautifully to rough surfaces like stucco, block, or cement, making it ideal for:

• Pools (interior and perimeter)
• Showers and bathrooms
• Exterior walls and facades
• Garden walls and wet zones

Because it’s porous and antibacterial, it naturally resists mildew and performs incredibly well in high-moisture areas.

2. Chukum Extra Fino

Our finer blend, made for interior walls, ceilings, and smooth surfaces like drywall or skim coat. Extra Fino glides on seamlessly and leaves a soft, matte finish that breathes and changes with time.

Use it for:

• Interior walls and ceilings
• Accent walls and built-in furniture
• Spaces where subtle elegance is key

Together, Chukum Base and Extra Fino give you complete versatility across interior and exterior spaces—without losing the integrity of the original formula.

Why the Patina Effect Matters

One of the most beautiful things about Chukum is how it ages. Unlike synthetic plasters or sealed microcement, Chukum develops a natural patina over time. This is not a flaw—it’s a feature. It’s what gives Chukum depth, movement, and soul.

If a product doesn’t evolve with time, it’s probably not real Chukum. Our resin-infused formula ensures that with proper application and exposure, your surfaces will come alive—deepening in tone, forming subtle clouding and organic variation that only nature can create.

Don’t Be Fooled by Imitations

In today’s design world, “Chukum-inspired” products are everywhere—but very few of them are authentic. Here’s how to spot the difference:

✅ Comes with real Chukum resin water
✅ Has the Chukum USA tree logo
✅ Sourced from a team rooted in the Yucatán
✅ Has visible tonal movement and breathability
✅ Offered in both Base and Extra Fino formulations

❌ If it’s pre-mixed with colorant
❌ If it looks like paint or feels sealed and plastic
❌ If it doesn’t patina over time
❌ If it’s just labeled “lime plaster” with no resin involved
❌ If it doesn’t come with the water—it’s not real Chukum

From Ancient Roots to Modern Design

Chukum is timeless—but it’s also having a moment. You’ve seen it in luxury homes, boutique hotels, spas, and modern tropical architecture. But what makes it special is that it’s alive, handcrafted, and rooted in tradition.

When you work with Chukum USA, you’re getting more than a product. You’re partnering with the original team that brought Chukum to the modern market. We support you from ordering to application, and we offer training, product guidance, and custom support for projects big and small.

If you’re investing in this beautiful finish, make sure you’re getting the real thing.

Look for the tree. Ask for the resin water. Work with the source.

Welcome to Chukum—the original.