Sitka Spruce
Picea sitchensis · Softwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest of North America, stretching from northern California to Alaska.
- Hardness
- 510 lbf, Soft
- Durability
- Slightly Durable, with low resistance to insect attack and decay.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Strictly quarter-sawn with very straight, tight, parallel growth rings and subtle cross-grain bearclaw figure.
Color & Appearance
Pale creamy white to light pinkish-brown heartwood with minimal color variation and moderate natural luster, darkening to a golden honey amber with age.
Hardness (Janka)
510 lbf, Soft
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable, with low resistance to insect attack and decay.
Value & Age
15 to 40 dollars per board foot for instrument-grade quarter-sawn lumber.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 10 to 30 years based on modern gloss finish preservation and light oxidation.
Common Uses
Acoustic guitar soundboards, piano soundboards, violin parts, light construction, and masts.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America, stretching from northern California to Alaska.
Workability
Exceptional workability with hand and machine tools, cutting cleanly but requiring sharp blades to avoid fuzzing soft earlywood.
Finish Recommendations
Spray lacquer, shellac, or UV-cured finishes applied in thin coats to preserve acoustic flexibility.
Notable Features
Unmatched strength-to-weight ratio and superior acoustic resonance properties making it the premier soundboard wood.
