Likely figured maple, possibly hard maple or bigleaf maple
Acer saccharum or Acer macrophyllum · Hardwood; temperate species
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate species
- Origin
- Hard maple is native to eastern North America; bigleaf maple grows mainly in the Pacific Northwest.
- Hardness
- Hard maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard. Bigleaf maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; limited natural decay resistance and not suited to prolonged exterior exposure.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight grain with pronounced curly/wavy figure and chatoyant bands; likely flat- or quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light tan heartwood and nearly white sapwood, with subtle pink-brown streaking. Figure reflects light strongly; maple generally ambers slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Hard maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard. Bigleaf maple: about 1,450 lbf, Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; limited natural decay resistance and not suited to prolonged exterior exposure.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$25 per board foot for figured maple, varying substantially with figure, width, drying, 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
- Cannot be reliably estimated from the photograph; the pale, freshly worked surface suggests recently milled or resurfaced wood rather than old patina.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, musical instruments, turned objects, decorative panels, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Hard maple is native to eastern North America; bigleaf maple grows mainly in the Pacific Northwest.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though figured grain can tear out during planing; use sharp cutters and light passes. Gluing and fastening are generally straightforward.
Finish Recommendations
Sand carefully, use a washcoat or conditioner to reduce uneven absorption, then apply clear lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane. Clear finishes best emphasize the figure.
Notable Features
Strong curly figure with noticeable chatoyance; dense, fine texture and relatively low pore visibility.
