Most likely spalted maple, probably Sugar Maple; alternatives include Silver Maple or another soft maple.
Acer saccharum (probable); Acer spp. alternatives · Hardwood; domestic North American
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; domestic North American
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and Appalachian regions.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf Janka for Sugar Maple — Hard; softer maple alternatives may be about 950–1,450 lbf.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited rot and insect resistance, while the visible spalting indicates localized fungal alteration.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, with prominent irregular black spalting, bark inclusions, and mild diffuse cathedral figure; appears flat-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Cream to pale tan wood with gray-black zone lines and dark decay pockets; maple typically has a subdued luster and amber-darkens slightly with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf Janka for Sugar Maple — Hard; softer maple alternatives may be about 950–1,450 lbf.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited rot and insect resistance, while the visible spalting indicates localized fungal alteration.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–30+ per board foot for attractive, dry spalted maple; value varies greatly with stability, figure, thickness, and defects.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Tree age cannot be determined from the photograph; the piece appears recently cut, with no reliable evidence of prolonged weathering.
Common Uses
Decorative furniture, boxes, cabinetry, turning, veneer, knife scales, and art pieces; best suited to dry interior applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and Appalachian regions.
Workability
Machines and sands reasonably well, but spalting and voids cause tear-out and edge crumbling; fill defects before fine sanding and use sharp tools.
Finish Recommendations
Dry thoroughly, stabilize or fill punky areas with clear resin, then use sanding sealer plus lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane; oil emphasizes contrast but may darken it.
Notable Features
Decorative fungal zone lines, strong color contrast, and irregular voids; the dark areas may be friable and structurally weak.
