Most likely spalted maple, probably sugar maple; alternatives include silver maple or another light-colored maple.
Acer saccharum (probable) · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America; sugar maple is native from the Great Lakes and New England through the Appalachian region.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf Janka; Hard.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; maple has limited natural decay resistance, and spalting can indicate localized biological degradation.
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly irregular, flowing grain in a turned bowl, with extensive spalting and dark zone lines; likely face-grain/greenwood turning rather than a standard sawn orientation.
Color & Appearance
Cream to pale honey-tan wood with darker brown streaks and black fungal boundary lines. Spalting provides strong contrast; the surface may amber slightly with light and finish.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf Janka; Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; maple has limited natural decay resistance, and spalting can indicate localized biological degradation.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–25 per board foot for attractive spalted maple; a finished bowl may retail for roughly $50–200 depending on size and craftsmanship.
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 bowl’s age cannot be determined visually; it appears finished and moderately handled, but the spalting predates turning and is not evidence of old age.
Common Uses
Decorative bowls, turning blanks, furniture accents, cabinetry, flooring, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America; sugar maple is native from the Great Lakes and New England through the Appalachian region.
Workability
Turns and sands well, though spalting creates variable hardness and can cause tear-out or fuzzy areas. Sharp tools, light cuts, and thorough drying are important; glue and finish readily.
Finish Recommendations
Apply sanding sealer followed by oil, wiping varnish, lacquer, or water-based polyurethane. Thin cyanoacrylate can stabilize soft spalted areas before final sanding.
Notable Features
Dramatic black spalting lines, irregular figure, pale color, and strong visual contrast make each piece unique.
