Spalted Maple
Acer saccharum (Sugar) or Acer rubrum (Red) • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but irregular with significant spalting (black zone lines), wavy figure, and occasional curls
Color Description
Creamy white to amber heartwood and sapwood with dramatic blue-grey to black fungal discoloration (spalting) and golden highlights
Hardness Rating
950 to 1450 lbf (Medium to Hard, though spalting can create soft spots)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to rot and insects, hence the intentional fungal spalting present in this specimen
Common Uses
Woodturning (bowls), decorative veneer, high-end furniture, musical instruments, and specialty boxes
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
15 to 30 USD per board foot depending on the intensity of the spalting and figure
Wood Age Estimate
Recently harvested and turned (0-2 years) based on the fresh appearance of the polish and visible shavings
Sustainability Status
Not listed by CITES or IUCN; generally highly sustainable and widely available in North America
Workability
Fair to good; however, 'punky' (soft) areas caused by spalting can lead to tear-out and require stabilizers or sharp tools
Notable Features
Distinctive black 'map' lines caused by competing fungi; spalting dust can be an irritant/allergen requiring respiratory protection
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss surface suggests a beeswax/carnauba blend, friction polish, or clear polyurethane to highlight the spalting
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of light tight-grained wood and classic black zone lines is diagnostic for spalted maple