What is the difference between continuous lamella and finger-jointed wood?

In staircase construction, solid wood treads and stringers are manufactured from glued lamellae. The difference lies in the length of the individual wood pieces:

Continuous lamella: The wood lamellae consist of long, uninterrupted pieces. This produces a uniform, calm appearance without visible joints within the lamella. This variant is higher quality and more expensive, as the wood selection is more demanding.

Finger-jointed: Several shorter wood pieces are joined with a finger joint (Keilzinken) and glued to form a long lamella. The joints are visible, giving the surface a more lively look. Finger-jointed wood is more affordable, as shorter pieces of wood can be used.

Important: Both variants are equally strong and durable -- the difference is purely visual and in price. With colour-lacquered finishes, the finger joints are barely visible.