Amboyna Burl (Padauk Burl)
Pterocarpus indicus · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Southeast Asia, specifically the East Indies, Philippines, and Solomon Islands.
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and termites, though burl sections can be physically fragile due to grain voids.
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular burl figure with wild swirls, tight clusters of bird's eye knots, and interlocked grain; creates a complex three-dimensional aesthetic.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from deep reddish-brown to golden yellow-orange; sapwood is pale yellow. Exhibits high luster and deep chatoyance; typically darkens to a richer brown with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and termites, though burl sections can be physically fragile due to grain voids.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $50.00 to $100.00 per board foot; often sold by the piece or weight due to its rarity and burl status.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern cut; appearance suggests a fresh turning blank or small project stock (0-5 years since processing).
- Sustainability Status
- Listed in CITES Appendix II; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable. Subject to trade restrictions and requires documentation for legal export.
Common Uses
Veneer, high-end furniture, turned objects, knife handles, musical instruments (inlays), jewelry boxes, and luxury car interiors.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia, specifically the East Indies, Philippines, and Solomon Islands.
Workability
Difficult due to highly irregular grain; prone to tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well, but requires sharp tools to prevent chipping burl eyes.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss finishes like lacquer or Danish oil are recommended to accentuate the chatoyance and depth of the burl figure.
Notable Features
Often has a faint, pleasant rose-like scent when being worked; known for having one of the most sought-after burl figures in the world.
