Black Cherry (Bench Top) and Ash (Legs/Stretchers)
Prunus serotina (Top), Fraxinus americana (Legs) • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Top features a flat-sawn cathedral pattern with significant 'Curly' figure (chatoyancy). Base shows prominent open-pore straight grain typical of ring-porous woods.
Color Description
Heartwood on top is a warm reddish-brown with golden undertones; it will darken significantly with UV exposure. Sapwood is yellowish-white. The legs are a pale cream to light tan.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Cherry) and 1320 lbf (Ash) - Medium to Hard classification
Durability Rating
Cherry is moderately durable regarding decay resistance. Ash is non-durable and perishable if exposed to ground contact.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, turned objects, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, particularly the Appalachian mountains.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Cherry: $6.00-$10.00/bf (higher for curly figure); Ash: $5.00-$8.00/bf.
Wood Age Estimate
Contemporary construction (likely less than 10 years old) showing early stages of Cherry's natural oxidation process.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Least Concern; widely available and sustainable in North America, though Ash is currently threatened by Emerald Ash Borer.
Workability
Excellent for machining and hand tools. Cherry may burn if saw blades are dull; Ash is highly cooperative and excellent for steam bending.
Notable Features
Cherry has a faint, pleasant scent when worked. It often contains small black gum pockets. Ash has high shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (Danish oil or Linseed) are recommended to pop the curly figure; clear lacquer or shellac to protect the color transition.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic warm-tone curly grain on the top is classic Prunus serotina, while the distinct wide-pore structure and pale color of the legs are diagnostic for Fraxinus.