
Likely purpleheart; the pale boards appear to be a different, unidentified light-colored wood, possibly maple or poplar.
Purpleheart: Peltogyne spp.; pale boards cannot be identified reliably from this image. · Exotic/Tropical hardwood (purpleheart).
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Exotic/Tropical hardwood (purpleheart).
- Origin
- Tropical Central and South America, especially the Amazon and Guiana regions.
- Hardness
- Purpleheart: about 2,520 lbf, Extremely Hard.
- Durability
- Durable to very durable; good natural resistance to decay and insects.
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Grain Pattern
Visible purpleheart has mostly straight, fairly uniform grain with subtle texture; no clear decorative figure. Pale boards show straight grain.
Color & Appearance
Purpleheart ranges from fresh gray-brown to vivid violet-purple, as visible here; light exposure can deepen or brown the purple. Sapwood is pale, but these contrasting pale pieces may be separate species.
Hardness (Janka)
Purpleheart: about 2,520 lbf, Extremely Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to very durable; good natural resistance to decay and insects.
Value & Age
Rough purpleheart commonly about US$10–25 per board foot; varies by location, thickness, 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
- Not reliably estimable from the photo; color indicates purpleheart, but does not establish age or storage history.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, turning, veneers, and decorative inlays.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Central and South America, especially the Amazon and Guiana regions.
Workability
Dense and hard; machine with sharp carbide tools, and predrill for fasteners. Sanding can be slow, and dust may stain surfaces.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and use a clear, UV-resistant finish to slow color change; test finish first, as appearance can shift.
Notable Features
Distinctive purple heartwood; oxidation and light alter its color. The image shows contrasting lumber pieces, not enough detail to assess end grain.