Most likely three contrasting tropical hardwoods: left African Blackwood, center African Mahogany, right Padauk; exact identification from one photo is uncertain.
Dalbergia melanoxylon; Khaya spp.; Pterocarpus soyauxii (likely). · Hardwood; exotic/tropical.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; exotic/tropical.
- Origin
- Africa: Sahel/eastern Africa; tropical West/Central Africa; and West/Central Africa, respectively.
- Hardness
- Approx. 3,670 lbf (left, Extremely Hard); 800–1,070 lbf (center, Soft to Medium); 1,970 lbf (right, Very Hard).
- Durability
- Left and right: Very Durable against decay and insects; center: Moderately Durable, with less outdoor resistance.
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Grain Pattern
Left appears straight and fine; center mostly straight with mild interlocked figure and broad pores; right straight to slightly interlocked, with pronounced linear open-pore texture.
Color & Appearance
Left is near-black brown; center golden to orange-brown with subdued luster; right vivid red-orange/purple-red, likely darkening toward brown with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Approx. 3,670 lbf (left, Extremely Hard); 800–1,070 lbf (center, Soft to Medium); 1,970 lbf (right, Very Hard).
Durability & Decay Resistance
Left and right: Very Durable against decay and insects; center: Moderately Durable, with less outdoor resistance.
Value & Age
Rough retail estimates: $40–100+/board foot (left), $8–20 (center), and $12–30 (right), varying greatly by grade and legality of supply.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- No reliable age estimate; polished surfaces show little diagnostic weathering or patina.
Common Uses
Instrument components, turning, and fine joinery; center furniture, cabinetry, and veneer; right furniture, flooring, carving, and decorative work.
Geographic Origin
Africa: Sahel/eastern Africa; tropical West/Central Africa; and West/Central Africa, respectively.
Workability
Left and right are dense and can blunt tools; center machines more easily but may tear out when interlocked. All generally glue and finish well after clean preparation.
Finish Recommendations
Use sanding sealer followed by lacquer, oil, or polyurethane; UV-resistant finish helps slow padauk color change. Clean oily surfaces before gluing or coating.
Notable Features
Strong color contrast, fine pores in the dark sample, and attractive natural luster; padauk is especially known for vivid color and aging oxidation.