Balgopal / Amboyna Burl (likely Narra burl)
Pterocarpus indicus • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and swirled burl figure with numerous small clusters of bird's eye knots and chaotic interlocked grain.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden yellow to deep reddish-brown. The sapwood is pale yellow. It exhibits high luster and chatoyance; colors deepen to a rich mahogany tone with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and termites due to high natural oils and density.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, fine woodworking, knife handles, luxury car interiors, musical instruments, and decorative turnings.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia, particularly the East Indies, Philippines, and Solomon Islands.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$50.00 - $100.00 per board foot (burl forms are among the world's most expensive woods).
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be from a mature growth tree (likely several decades old) but the finished item shows modern high-gloss coating, suggesting recent craftsmanship.
Sustainability Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II and classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to over-harvesting.
Workability
Difficult to work due to the wild grain and burl eyes which cause frequent tear-out. Glues and finishes well but can dull cutting edges quickly.
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet fragrance when worked. One of the the most sought-after burls in the world; used historically in the dashboards of Rolls-Royce vehicles.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss lacquers or polishes are standard to highlight the chatoyance. Penetrating oils also work well to enhance the depth of the figure.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight circular 'eyes', deep reddish-amber hue, and specific swirl patterns are diagnostic of Pterocarpus indicus burl.