Most likely spalted maple, possibly spalted birch or beech.
Acer spp. (likely Acer saccharum); alternatives Betula spp. or Fagus grandifolia. · Hardwood; domestic North American timber.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; domestic North American timber.
- Origin
- Likely eastern and central North America; maple, birch, and beech are widespread there.
- Hardness
- Sugar maple: 1,450 lbf, Hard; birch/beech alternatives approximately 1,260–1,450 lbf.
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; maple is not naturally rot-resistant and is vulnerable to moisture and insects.
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Grain Pattern
Bowl-turned, mostly diffuse straight grain with dramatic irregular dark zone lines and spalting; likely cross-grain and some burl-like figure.
Color & Appearance
Honey-tan to medium brown with darker brown/black spalting, pale sapwood-like areas, and strong natural luster from turning and finish. Spalted regions may mellow darker with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Sugar maple: 1,450 lbf, Hard; birch/beech alternatives approximately 1,260–1,450 lbf.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; maple is not naturally rot-resistant and is vulnerable to moisture and insects.
Value & Age
Approximately $10–30 per board foot for attractive spalted turning stock; finished bowls vary widely, often $50–200.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Tree age cannot be determined visually; the bowl appears recently turned or finished, with limited surface patina.
Common Uses
Decorative bowls, furniture, cabinetry, flooring, turned objects, veneer, and specialty craftwork.
Geographic Origin
Likely eastern and central North America; maple, birch, and beech are widespread there.
Workability
Turns and sands well, though spalting creates variable hardness, tearout, and fragile areas. Glue generally performs well; sharp tools are important.
Finish Recommendations
Apply thin penetrating oil, Danish oil, lacquer, or wipe-on polyurethane after thorough sanding; seal end grain and porous spalted areas carefully.
Notable Features
Highly decorative fungal zone lines, color contrast, and chatoyant figure; density and texture vary across the spalted wood.