Amboyna Burl
Pterocarpus indicus · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Southeast Asia (primarily Indonesia and the Philippines); also found in parts of Northern Australia.
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable. Highly resistant to termites and rot, though the burl figure often contains small voids or inclusions that can be physically fragile.
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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 & Appearance
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 (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Highly resistant to termites and rot, though the burl figure often contains small voids or inclusions that can be physically fragile.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
