Most likely spalted silver maple; alternatives include birch or sycamore.
Acer saccharinum (probable) · Hardwood; domestic temperate species.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; domestic temperate species.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and Mississippi Valley regions.
- Hardness
- Janka approximately 750 lbf — Soft.
- Durability
- Slightly durable; untreated maple is vulnerable to decay, insects, and weathering, especially near spalting or cracks.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cross-section with broad swirling, cathedral-like growth rings, knots, and localized spalting; highly irregular grain around defects.
Color & Appearance
Very pale cream to light tan sapwood with subtle gray-brown streaks and dark spalting lines. Low to moderate luster; typically yellows slightly with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
Janka approximately 750 lbf — Soft.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; untreated maple is vulnerable to decay, insects, and weathering, especially near spalting or cracks.
Value & Age
About $5–15 per board foot for ordinary figured/spalted material; more for large, stable, well-figured blanks.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The sample’s age cannot be determined visually; it appears freshly cut or recently machined, with no convincing surface patina.
Common Uses
Furniture, bowls, turning blanks, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, and decorative slabs.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes and Mississippi Valley regions.
Workability
Generally easy to saw, turn, sand, glue, and finish, though interlocked grain and spalting can cause tear-out and fragile areas.
Finish Recommendations
Sand carefully, stabilize soft spalting if necessary, then use shellac, lacquer, oil, or clear polyurethane; a wash coat can reduce uneven absorption.
Notable Features
Strong growth-ring movement, knots, and attractive natural spalting create a sculptural decorative surface.