Likely purpleheart; alternatives include stained or color-shifted hardwood, since the image shows only a sanded face and no end grain. — Peltogyne spp.

Likely purpleheart; alternatives include stained or color-shifted hardwood, since the image shows only a sanded face and no end grain.

Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Exotic/Tropical hardwood
Origin
Tropical Central and South America, especially the Guianas and Amazon basin.
Hardness
2,520 lbf; Extremely Hard.
Durability
Durable to very durable; heartwood resists decay and many insects, though performance varies with species and exposure.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine-to-medium texture with subtle, diffuse figure; cut orientation is unclear.

Color & Appearance

Pinkish purple to muted violet with cloudy variation; fresh purpleheart often deepens to violet-brown with light and age. Sapwood is usually pale and distinct, but not clearly visible here.

Hardness (Janka)

2,520 lbf; Extremely Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable to very durable; heartwood resists decay and many insects, though performance varies with species and exposure.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$10–25 per board foot for common surfaced stock; grade, thickness, and location affect price.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be determined from the photo; the smooth, apparently freshly sanded surface gives no reliable age indicators.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, turning, decking, decorative veneer, and tool or instrument components.

Geographic Origin

Tropical Central and South America, especially the Guianas and Amazon basin.

Workability

Hard and dense; machines cleanly with sharp carbide tooling but can blunt edges and may tear out where grain shifts. Pre-drill for fasteners; gluing and finishing are generally straightforward after surface preparation.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply a clear oil, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first, as finish can alter the purple tone. Avoid prolonged UV exposure if retaining the original color matters.

Notable Features

Known for vivid purple heartwood, which may initially appear less saturated and darken with light exposure; typically heavy and fine-textured.

Learn more about Likely purpleheart; alternatives include stained or color-shifted hardwood, since the image shows only a sanded face and no end grain. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 26, 2026