Most likely black palm (alternative: palmwood such as coconut palm)
Borassus flabellifer (tentative) · Exotic/Tropical; technically a monocot rather than true hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Exotic/Tropical; technically a monocot rather than true hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical South and Southeast Asia, especially India, Sri Lanka, and surrounding regions.
- Hardness
- Approximately 1,500–2,000 lbf equivalent; Hard to Very Hard, though palm density varies greatly.
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; dense material resists abrasion, but durability varies and it is not uniformly decay-resistant like teak.
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Grain Pattern
Longitudinal, strongly mottled and vertically streaked, with dark vascular-bundle bands; appears turned from a solid blank.
Color & Appearance
Golden tan to medium brown with dark brown-black streaking and glossy chatoyance; likely darkens slightly with oxidation and light.
Hardness (Janka)
Approximately 1,500–2,000 lbf equivalent; Hard to Very Hard, though palm density varies greatly.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; dense material resists abrasion, but durability varies and it is not uniformly decay-resistant like teak.
Value & Age
Finished turned objects vary widely; raw specialty blanks commonly retail around US$15–50 per board-foot equivalent.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be reliably estimated from this finished, polished object; visible condition suggests an intact relatively recent finish rather than measurable age.
Common Uses
Turned bowls and vessels, decorative objects, knife scales, furniture accents, flooring, and specialty craftwork.
Geographic Origin
Tropical South and Southeast Asia, especially India, Sri Lanka, and surrounding regions.
Workability
Usually turns well but may be abrasive and can cause tear-out around vascular bundles; sharp tools, light cuts, and thorough sanding are advisable. Gluing and finishing are generally satisfactory.
Finish Recommendations
Gloss lacquer, polyurethane, cyanoacrylate, or penetrating oil can work; seal end grain and sand progressively to at least 320–400 grit.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark vascular-bundle streaking, high density, low porosity, and strong decorative contrast; the photograph shows no diagnostic end grain.
