Most likely spalted or figured ash; alternatives include hickory or white oak.
Fraxinus spp., probably Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, particularly the United States and southern Canada.
- Hardness
- Janka approximately 1,320 lbf—Hard.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; ash has limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering, especially when unfinished.
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight, open-grained, with pronounced vertical striping and mild wavy/chatoyant figure; no clear quarter-sawn ray fleck is visible.
Color & Appearance
Pale tan to light brown heartwood with creamy sapwood and darker gray-brown streaking, possibly mild spalting. It generally darkens slightly and warms with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Janka approximately 1,320 lbf—Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; ash has limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and weathering, especially when unfinished.
Value & Age
About $6–$14 per board foot for attractive figured ash, varying substantially by thickness, 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
- The board appears recently milled or moderately shop-aged; visible patina is insufficient to estimate tree or sample age.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, tool handles, sporting goods, veneer, and turned work.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, particularly the United States and southern Canada.
Workability
Machines, sands, glues, and fastens well, though its open pores can tear slightly and require grain filling for a smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Use sanding sealer followed by oil, lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane; pore filling improves gloss finishes, and end grain may absorb finish unevenly.
Notable Features
Strong, springy fibers, prominent earlywood/latewood contrast, and good impact resistance; darker streaking may be fungal spalting or mineral staining.