Amboyna Burl
Pterocarpus indicus • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Highly irregular burl figure with numerous small bird's eye knots and swirled, multi-directional grain. Features intense chatoyancy and complex clusters of dormant buds typical of burl growth.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from golden yellow to a deep reddish-brown. Displays significant luster. The wood usually matures to a richer, darker shade with light exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable. Highly resistant to termites and rot, though the burl figure often contains small voids or inclusions that can be physically fragile.
Common Uses
High-end veneers, fine furniture inlays, knife handles, luxury automotive trim, fountain pens, and turned bowls or decorative objects.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia (primarily Indonesia and the Philippines); also found in parts of Northern Australia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$50.00 - $100.00 per board foot (values for high-quality burl slabs or blanks can be significantly higher).
Wood Age Estimate
The finished state and deep oxidation suggest the wood has been seasoned and finished for at least 5-10 years, though the tree itself was likely many decades old.
Sustainability Status
CITES Appendix II listed and on the IUCN Red List as vulnerable. Trade is regulated and limited; sustainable FSC sources are rare for burl growth.
Workability
Difficult due to irregular grain; prone to tear-out when machined. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well. High natural oil content may require surface cleaning before gluing.
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet/spicy fragrance when worked. One of the most sought-after and expensive burl types in the world. Noted for its high tannin content.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss lacquer or polyurethane are recommended to highlight the chatoyance. Oil and wax finishes provide a more natural, tactile feel for turned decorative pieces.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic reddish-golden color combined with the specific density and size of the burl clusters is synonymous with Pterocarpus indicus burl (Amboyna).