European Cherry
Prunus avium • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight grain with fine, uniform texture; visible cathedral growth rings on the right side of the utensil face; some subtle wavy figure is visible under the finish.
Color Description
Heartwood is a warm golden-brown to light reddish-pink; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It has a high natural luster and typically darkens significantly to a rich mahogany color with light exposure and age.
Hardness Rating
1,150 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood is resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack if used outdoors.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, kitchen utensils, musical instruments, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Europe, Northwest Africa, and Western Asia; also cultivated in orchards globally.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $8.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on figure and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
3 to 7 years; based on the warm golden patina and slight wear on the leading edge of the utensil, suggesting moderate kitchen use and oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in any CITES Appendices and reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern; widely available from sustainable sources.
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools; planes to a very smooth finish. It can be prone to burning if saw blades are dull or feed rates are too slow.
Notable Features
Mild, pleasant scent when being worked; prized for its excellent finishing properties and dimensional stability; non-toxic and food-safe once dried.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax/oil blends for kitchen utensils; for furniture, oil-based varnishes or shellac enhance the natural chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
High; the salmon-hued undertones, fine pore structure, and characteristic growth ring patterns are diagnostic for Prunus species, specifically European Cherry used in craft utensils.