Likely soft maple, probably curly Bigleaf Maple; alternatives include curly Silver Maple or Red Maple.
Acer macrophyllum (probable); Acer saccharinum or Acer rubrum possible · Hardwood; temperate North American species
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate North American species
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest, from British Columbia through western Washington and Oregon into northern California.
- Hardness
- About 700 lbf Janka for Bigleaf Maple—Soft by the requested scale.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; sapwood has limited resistance to decay, insects, and weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to mildly irregular grain with pronounced wavy/curly figure and broad chatoyant bands; appears flat-sawn rather than quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light tan sapwood with subtle pink-brown areas; silky luster and strong figure. It generally amber-darkens slightly with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
About 700 lbf Janka for Bigleaf Maple—Soft by the requested scale.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; sapwood has limited resistance to decay, insects, and weathering.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$20 per board foot for attractive curly figured stock; ordinary boards may be $4–$10.
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 photograph shows freshly milled or lightly weathered stock; no reliable age estimate is possible from visible features.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, paneling, musical instruments, turning, and decorative millwork.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest, from British Columbia through western Washington and Oregon into northern California.
Workability
Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well, though figured grain can tear out during planing; use sharp cutters and light passes.
Finish Recommendations
Sand carefully, consider a washcoat or sanding sealer to even absorption, then use oil, shellac, lacquer, or clear polyurethane.
Notable Features
Distinctive curl produces chatoyance and a rippling “fiddleback” appearance; relatively light and fine-textured.
