Ash (specifically White Ash or Green Ash)
Fraxinus americana / Fraxinus pennsylvanica • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strong, prominent cathedral grain figure on the turned face; straight to slightly wavy grain on the neck. Features large, open pores characteristic of ring-porous hardwoods, creating significant texture and contrast between earlywood and latewood.
Color Description
Creamy white to light brown heartwood with very light, almost white sapwood. It exhibits a low to medium luster and typically shifts toward a golden yellow or light amber hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable, perishable; poor resistance to rot and fungal decay, and susceptible to powder post beetles.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, tool handles (due to shock resistance), baseball bats, cabinetry, interior millwork, and turned objects like this vase.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot (varies based on regional availability due to Emerald Ash Borer impact).
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be from a relatively young, fast-growing tree based on the wide growth rings. The object itself looks modern, likely less than 10-20 years old, showing minimal oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer, though not currently CITES listed. FSC certification is available.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools. It responds very well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though the large open pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Remarkable shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio. Lacks a characteristic odor. The distinctive 'wide' grain spacing here suggests a tree with vigorous growth.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability. Water-based finishes help maintain the light color, while oil-based finishes will immediately warm the wood to a yellowish tone.
Identification Confidence
High; the bold, ring-porous grain structure combined with the signature creamy-white color and visible latewood/earlywood contrast is diagnostic of Fraxinus species.