Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed, straight grain with a fine, uniform texture. This sample displays flat-sawn cathedral patterns across the face with subtle natural ripples and occasional small pith flecks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish-brown when freshly cut, deepening to a rich reddish-brown or medium amber over time with light exposure. Sapwood is typically pale yellowish-white. The piece shows high luster and characteristic darkening patina.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood is rated as very resistant to decay from fungi, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, tool handles, musical instruments, and small specialty turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the deep amber oxidation/patina and traditional drop-leaf furniture styling, this sample appears to be at least 40-60 years old, potentially mid-20th century.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available through FSC certified sources.
Workability
Excellent. It is known for its superb machining characteristics, ease of planing, and sanding. It can be prone to burning if router bits are dull, but it glues and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint rose-like scent when freshly worked. It is famous for its photo-reactive properties (darkening significantly in sunlight) and often contains small black gum pockets (pith flecks).
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) enhance the natural darkening process. Shellac and wiping varnishes are also highly recommended to showcase the grain depth.
Identification Confidence
High. The warm reddish-brown patina, fine-textured closed grain, and specific cathedral pattern are diagnostic of aged Black Cherry furniture.