Sugar Maple (Curly Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strong curly or tiger figure (fiddleback) featuring wavy grain that runs perpendicular to the growth rings, creating a three-dimensional chatoyance.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish brown heartwood; sapwood is typically preferred for its uniform off-white color. It exhibits a high luster and develops a golden amber patina with age.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; susceptible to attack by insects and rot if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (violin backs, guitar tops), high-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the oxidation level and the style of the furniture apron, the wood appears to be 20-50 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available.
Workability
Fairly difficult to work due to the figured grain which causes significant tearout during planing. Requires sharp tools and light passes; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Exhibits excellent acoustic properties and a distinct chatoyance where the wood appears to move when viewed from different angles. Dust can be a mild respiratory irritant.
Finish Recommendations
Dye stains are often used to pop the figure, followed by clear coats of lacquer or shellac to enhance depth. Polyurethane is suitable for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight, consistent compression waves (curly figure) combined with the diffuse-porous structure and light color are diagnostic for Acer saccharum.