Likely tiger-striped (curly) maple; hard maple is the leading possibility, though the photo cannot reliably distinguish it from other maples.
Most likely Acer saccharum (sugar maple); possibly Acer rubrum or another Acer species. · Hardwood.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood.
- Origin
- Maples are native across much of North America; sugar maple is especially common in eastern Canada and the northeastern and Great Lakes United States.
- Hardness
- Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard. Red maple is about 950 lbf, Medium.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited decay and insect resistance, especially outdoors.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight grain with pronounced, repeated curly/flamed figure—likely a flat-sawn or figured face; end grain is not visible.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light golden-tan, with subtle darker figure and fairly even color. Maple often amber- or yellow-tones with age and light exposure; little sapwood/heartwood contrast is apparent.
Hardness (Janka)
Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard. Red maple is about 950 lbf, Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; untreated maple has limited decay and insect resistance, especially outdoors.
Value & Age
Common maple lumber is roughly $5–$12 per board foot; figured maple can cost substantially more, depending on figure and grade.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Not determinable from this clean, apparently sanded sample; no clear patina or wear indicators are visible.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, musical instruments, turning, and decorative panels.
Geographic Origin
Maples are native across much of North America; sugar maple is especially common in eastern Canada and the northeastern and Great Lakes United States.
Workability
Machines and sands well, but figured grain can tear out during planing; sharp cutters and light passes help. Glue and fasteners generally work well.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and apply a clear lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane to preserve the light color; a dye or stain can emphasize figure but may blotch.
Notable Features
The strong flame-like figure is consistent with curly maple and may show a subtle shifting sheen under changing light.