Maple Burl (likely Bigleaf Maple)
Acer macrophyllum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Burl figure with highly irregular, swirled, and contorted grain. Features numerous small knots (bird's eyes), dormant bud clusters, and localized bark inclusions/spalting.
Color Description
Variegated shades of reddish-brown, golden amber, and cream. High luster and chatoyancy in the figured areas. Heartwood darkens to a deeper gold-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
850 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Slightly Durable to Non-durable; low resistance to rot and fungal decay without a protective finish.
Common Uses
Woodturning, decorative bowls, veneer, musical instrument tops (electric guitars), fine furniture inlays, and small specialty items like the candle holder pictured.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Coast of North America (British Columbia down to California).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $35.00 per board foot for high-quality burl slabs or turning blanks.
Wood Age Estimate
Recently crafted (within 1-5 years) based on the crispness of the turned edges and the clarity of the surface finish with minimal oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed and categorized by IUCN as Least Concern; widely available but high-quality burl is becoming more expensive due to demand.
Workability
Difficult due to wild grain direction which causes frequent tearout. High-speed turning and very sharp tools are required. Sanding is the primary method for achieving a smooth finish.
Notable Features
Features 'bark inclusions' and natural voids common in burl growth. Has a neutral scent and can produce fine, allergenic dust during sanding.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss friction polish, tung oil, or polyurethane to enhance the depth of the figure and protect against moisture.
Identification Confidence
High; the density of the pin knots (droplets), color palette, and specific swirled texture are classic indicators of Bigleaf Maple burl.