Most likely spalted maple, probably sugar maple; alternatives include red maple or spalted birch.
Acer saccharum (probable); Acer rubrum or Betula spp. possible. · Hardwood; domestic North American; spalted/figured stock.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; domestic North American; spalted/figured stock.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States/Canada.
- Hardness
- Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Red maple is about 950 lbf—Medium.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; maple is not naturally rot-resistant and is vulnerable outdoors to decay and insects.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly irregular, flat-sawn grain with dramatic spalting, zone lines, elongated bark-like inclusions, and contrasting pale/dark regions; no clear end grain is visible.
Color & Appearance
Cream to pale tan sapwood with brown, gray, and near-black spalting; moderate luster. Light areas generally amber slightly with age, while dark spalting remains contrasting.
Hardness (Janka)
Sugar maple: about 1,450 lbf Janka—Hard. Red maple is about 950 lbf—Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; maple is not naturally rot-resistant and is vulnerable outdoors to decay and insects.
Value & Age
Approximately US$15–40 per board foot for attractive dry spalted maple, with exceptional figure potentially higher.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The timber’s age cannot be determined visually; the dark spalting indicates fungal activity before milling, not necessarily old wood.
Common Uses
Furniture, tabletops, cabinetry, decorative panels, turning, knife scales, and veneers; primarily interior applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Appalachians, and northeastern United States/Canada.
Workability
Machines and sands well, though irregular spalting can cause tear-out and variable hardness; sharp tools, light cuts, and careful sanding are advisable. Glues and finishes readily when dry.
Finish Recommendations
Use a penetrating oil, hardwax oil, lacquer, or clear polyurethane after thorough sanding and dust removal; a clear finish best preserves contrast. Seal porous dark areas evenly to reduce blotching.
Notable Features
Highly individual black zone lines and tonal contrast produced by spalting; likely moderate-to-high density and strong decorative figure.