Most likely spalted beech; alternatives include spalted maple or sycamore
Fagus grandifolia (likely) · Hardwood; domestic temperate species
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; domestic temperate species
- Origin
- Eastern North America, especially the Appalachian and northeastern United States and southeastern Canada
- Hardness
- 1,300 lbf Janka; Hard
- Durability
- Non-durable outdoors; limited resistance to rot and insects when untreated
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight to mildly wavy grain with strong irregular spalting lines and streaks; flat-sawn appearance, with small insect-pin holes
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to tan wood with gray-brown and darker spalting zones; moderate diffuse luster. Color may mellow and darken slightly with light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,300 lbf Janka; Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable outdoors; limited resistance to rot and insects when untreated
Value & Age
About $8–25 per board foot for attractive, dry spalted stock; premium figured pieces may exceed this
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 board appears recently machined and lightly handled; visible spalting is biological figure, not proof of age. Approximate sample age cannot be determined visually
Common Uses
Furniture, decorative panels, cabinetry, turning, boxes, veneer, and small instrument or craft components
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, especially the Appalachian and northeastern United States and southeastern Canada
Workability
Machines and sands well, though spalting can create softer zones, tearout, and uneven sanding. Pre-drilling is advisable; gluing is generally straightforward
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and seal soft spalting with thin shellac or lacquer; oil, polyurethane, or clear lacquer can enhance contrast. Test finish absorption on scrap
Notable Features
Distinctive contrasting spalting, possible pin-hole beetle damage, fine texture, and good turning characteristics; no clear end-grain view is provided