Black Cherry (most likely)
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed-grain with a straight, fine, and uniform texture. Shows typical flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible through the rough-milled surface. Minor flecking possible.
Color Description
Light pinkish brown in its current rough state; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It will darken significantly over time to a deep reddish-brown with exposure to light.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; heartwood is rated as very resistant to decay from rot and fungi, though it is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, musical instruments (piano keys), and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $8.00 USD per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced (under 1 year) based on the light color and lack of UV-induced oxidation (darkening).
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It machines well, though it can burn if router bits are dull. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Faint, mild scent when being worked; contains high levels of natural chemicals that cause it to darken rapidly in sunlight; small pitch pockets (gum streaks) are common.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) are recommended to enhance the natural darkening process; wipe-on poly or shellac also work well to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the closed-grain structure and pale pink hue are characteristic of Prunus serotina, while Yew would typically show narrower growth rings and a more waxy appearance even when rough.
Notes
Cherry or yew