White Oak (likely with a traditional stain)
Quercus alba • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Coarse, straight-grained with prominent rays and visible large pores typical of a ring-porous hardwood. Shows a classic tangential 'cathedral' figure near the miter joints.
Color Description
Heartwood is naturally light to medium brown; this sample shows a golden-brown stained finish with darker pigments highlights in the open pores (pore-filling effect). It has a low to medium luster under a semi-gloss topcoat.
Hardness Rating
1,360 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; known for high decay resistance and exceptional rot resistance due to tyloses in heartwood pores; good resistance to insects.
Common Uses
High-quality furniture, flooring, cabinetry, barrel making (cooperage), boat building, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot for select grade lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
The furniture piece appears to be 20-50 years old based on the miter joint wear, the specific golden-oak stain palette popular in late 20th-century traditional furniture, and the level of oxidation in the finish.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Excellent results with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though the large pores require a filler for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'tannic' scent when freshly cut. High tannin content can react with iron to cause blue-black staining. Features large, visible pores and significant medullary rays.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer are best for durability; oil-based stains are excellent for highlighting the open grain. A grain filler can be used if a flat surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the large, open, ring-porous structure combined with the specific grain sweep and ray fleck visible in the grain is characteristic of the Quercus genus, specifically the White Oak group.