Likely oak, most plausibly red oak; white oak is a reasonable alternative. The image shows a finished turned table, so species identification is provisional. — Quercus rubra (likely); possibly Quercus alba

Likely oak, most plausibly red oak; white oak is a reasonable alternative. The image shows a finished turned table, so species identification is provisional.

Quercus rubra (likely); possibly Quercus alba · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Both alternatives are native to eastern and central North America; red oak is especially common in the eastern United States.
Hardness
Red oak: about 1,290 lbf, Hard; white oak: about 1,360 lbf, Hard.
Durability
Red oak heartwood is slightly durable; white oak is durable. Indoor furniture use avoids most decay exposure.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Prominent, mostly straight to gently wavy grain with broad cathedral-like figure on the flat surfaces; no clear ray fleck is visible.

Color & Appearance

Golden to medium brown finish with darker grain and possible age-related ambering. Sapwood is not clearly distinguishable; lighting and finish affect apparent color.

Hardness (Janka)

Red oak: about 1,290 lbf, Hard; white oak: about 1,360 lbf, Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Red oak heartwood is slightly durable; white oak is durable. Indoor furniture use avoids most decay exposure.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$5–12 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried, surfaced oak; furniture value depends on construction and condition.

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 reliably estimate from the photograph; the finish appears aged or ambered, but this does not establish the wood’s age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, trim, veneer, and turned components.

Geographic Origin

Both alternatives are native to eastern and central North America; red oak is especially common in the eastern United States.

Workability

Machines and finishes well, though prominent grain can tear out during planing. Pre-drill fasteners near edges; gluing is generally straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Clean gently, test products in an inconspicuous area, then use a compatible clear varnish or polyurethane for protection; avoid aggressive sanding that could damage the existing finish.

Notable Features

Distinctive open-pored grain and strong contrast between earlywood and latewood; the image does not show enough detail to assess end grain or ray fleck.

Learn more about Likely oak, most plausibly red oak; white oak is a reasonable alternative. The image shows a finished turned table, so species identification is provisional. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 4, 2026