Most likely purpleheart; alternatives include stained or oxidized hardwood, since the surface is heavily coated and worn. — Peltogyne spp.

Most likely purpleheart; alternatives include stained or oxidized hardwood, since the surface is heavily coated and worn.

Peltogyne spp. · Exotic/Tropical hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Exotic/Tropical hardwood
Origin
Central and South American tropical forests, especially the Guianas and Amazon basin.
Hardness
2,520 lbf; Extremely Hard.
Durability
Very Durable; heartwood is notably resistant to decay and moderately resistant to insects.

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Grain Pattern

Grain is obscured by the dark finish and wear; no reliable figure or cut orientation is visible.

Color & Appearance

Visible surface is deep burgundy-purple with scratches and pale abrasions. Purpleheart heartwood is naturally vivid violet-purple, often darkening toward brown with light and age; sapwood is paler.

Hardness (Janka)

2,520 lbf; Extremely Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable; heartwood is notably resistant to decay and moderately resistant to insects.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$10–25 per board foot for clear lumber; grade, dimensions, and location strongly affect price.

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 estimated from this photograph; surface wear and finish do not establish the sample’s age.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, turning, veneers, inlay, and instrument components.

Geographic Origin

Central and South American tropical forests, especially the Guianas and Amazon basin.

Workability

Hard and dense; carbide tooling is helpful. Can blunt cutters, and interlocked grain may tear out; predrill fasteners and sand progressively.

Finish Recommendations

Remove or identify the existing coating before refinishing. Sand evenly and use a clear UV-resistant finish to help slow color change; test first for adhesion and color response.

Notable Features

Distinctive purple heartwood, often deepening to brown; dense, heavy wood with a fine-to-medium texture.

Learn more about Most likely purpleheart; alternatives include stained or oxidized hardwood, since the surface is heavily coated and worn. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 14, 2026