Pecan (or Hickory)
Carya illinoinensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to North America, specifically Central and Southern United States.
- Hardness
- 1,820 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to wood-boring insects. Intended for interior use only as it has low resistance to rot and decay.
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Grain Pattern
Straight but occasionally wavy or irregular; medium to coarse texture with large pores characteristic of ring-porous woods. The veneer displays mild cathedral patterns and some scattered character marks.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium brown with a reddish hue; sapwood is pale yellowish brown. This sample shows a medium-toned stain with a warm amber patina. It tends to darken or yellow slightly over long periods of UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,820 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to wood-boring insects. Intended for interior use only as it has low resistance to rot and decay.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.50 to $7.00 per board foot for solid lumber; varies for vintage furniture pieces.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 40–60 years old. The campaign-style 'campaign' brass hardware and overall construction suggest mid-20th-century origins, approximately 1960s–1970s.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); wide FSC availability. Not CITES listed and considered a sustainable North American resource.
Common Uses
Furniture (especially mid-century styles), cabinetry, flooring, tool handles, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to North America, specifically Central and Southern United States.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme hardness and density. It has a high blunting effect on cutters. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though pre-boring for screws is essential.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability on furniture. Pre-stain conditioner is recommended to avoid blotching given the varied density of the grain.
Notable Features
Known for its 'toughness' and resilience. It lacks a distinctive scent but is prized for its high shock resistance. The wood is often mixed with Hickory in commercial sales.
