Teak
Tectona grandis • Hardwood / Exotic
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with a coarse but uniform texture; visible open pores typical of flat-sawn ring-porous hardwoods appearing as dark streaks.
Color Description
Golden to medium brown with darker streaks. The sample shows a warm amber hue likely deepened by light exposure and a high-gloss finish. Sapwood is typically pale yellowish-white and excluded here.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot, fungi, and termites due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, boat building (decks), outdoor decking, cabinetry, and prestigious indoor joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); extensively grown on plantations worldwide.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Ranges from $15.00 to $40.00 per board foot depending on source (FEQ - First European Quality) and sustainability certification.
Wood Age Estimate
The furniture piece appears to be 20-40 years old based on the yellowing/ambering of the thick polyurethane or lacquer finish and the depth of the patina.
Sustainability Status
Natural-grown teak is increasingly restricted; listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List (Myanmar). Plantation teak is widely available and more sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though its high silica content has a significant dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues and finishes well if surface oils are managed.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; naturally high in oils and silica; known for excellent dimensional stability through moisture changes.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss polyurethane (as seen in image) provides protection, though teak oil or spar varnish is preferred for maritime or outdoor applications to maintain the wood's natural feel.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of large, dark-pigmented open pores, golden-brown color, and furniture context (likely a mid-century style chair arm) is hallmark for Tectona grandis.