Amboyna Burl (Narra)
Pterocarpus indicus • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and chaotic swirl patterns characteristic of a burl, featuring bird's eye knots, tight clusters, and interlocked grain with significant figuring.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden yellow to a deep reddish-brown. The sample exhibits classic rich orange-red tones with lighter yellowish swirls. High natural luster and chatoyance; tends to darken slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to termite attack and rot, though burls are used primarily for indoor decorative purposes.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, fine turned objects (like this pen), knife handles, musical instruments, luxury car interior trim, and veneers.
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 slices and turning blanks are significantly more expensive than standard lumber).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (0-5 years); the finish and hardware suggest a contemporary handcrafted item rather than an antique.
Sustainability Status
CITES Appendix II listed; classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to past over-exploitation and habitat loss.
Workability
Generally works well but difficult due to wild grain; requires very sharp tools to avoid tearout. Glues and finishes excellently, though the high density can dull blades.
Notable Features
Often possesses a distinct, pleasant fragrance when being worked. The wood is historically prized as one of the most sought-after burls in the world.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss Cyanoacrylate (CA) finish (common for pens) or friction polish to highlight the depth of the burl. Polyurethane or lacquer also work well to protect the figure.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight red-orange swirl pattern combined with the small dark knots and chatoyance is a characteristic hallmark of Pterocarpus indicus burls.