Most likely spalted beech; maple is a possible alternative. Species identification from this face-grain image alone is uncertain.
Fagus sylvatica (European beech); alternatively Fagus grandifolia (American beech). · Hardwood; temperate, non-tropical.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate, non-tropical.
- Origin
- Beech grows across Europe and western Asia (European beech) and eastern North America (American beech).
- Hardness
- European beech: about 1,450 lbf, Hard. American beech: about 1,300 lbf, Hard.
- Durability
- Non-durable to slightly durable; untreated beech has limited resistance to decay and insect attack, especially when damp.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, fine grain with irregular dark spalting lines and patches; the image shows face grain, so cut orientation cannot be confirmed.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light tan with gray-brown and near-black fungal zone lines; finish may warm and deepen the color. No clear sapwood-heartwood distinction is visible.
Hardness (Janka)
European beech: about 1,450 lbf, Hard. American beech: about 1,300 lbf, Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to slightly durable; untreated beech has limited resistance to decay and insect attack, especially when damp.
Value & Age
Highly variable; ordinary beech lumber commonly about US$4–10 per board foot, with figured spalted pieces priced higher.
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 image; visible discoloration may reflect spalting rather than age or weathering.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, bent components, turned objects, and decorative panels; spalted stock is often used for accents and small objects.
Geographic Origin
Beech grows across Europe and western Asia (European beech) and eastern North America (American beech).
Workability
Machines and sands well but can burn, fuzz, or tear with dull tools; predrilling helps with fasteners, and it glues and finishes readily.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first, since spalting can absorb finish unevenly.
Notable Features
The dark lines and patches are consistent with spalting, which creates decorative fungal zone patterns; figure and pattern vary greatly between boards.