Zitan (Red Sandalwood)
Pterocarpus santalinus · Exotic/Tropical (Hardwood)
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical (Hardwood)
- Origin
- Native to the Seshachalam Hills of Andhra Pradesh in Southern India; also cultivated in limited Southeast Asian regions.
- Hardness
- 2,950 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insect attacks due to high density and natural extractive content.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked and wavy grain with deep, dense figures; often exhibits a 'swirling' or 'ox-hair' fine pattern with small, visible pores that appear as gold flecks when polished.
Color & Appearance
Extremely dark reddish-brown to deep purple-black heartwood; sapwood is pale yellow. It is highly lustrous with deep chatoyance and typically darkens significantly toward black upon exposure to U.V. light.
Hardness (Janka)
2,950 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insect attacks due to high density and natural extractive content.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $50.00 - $150.00 per board foot; can be considerably higher for authenticated vintage pieces of exceptional quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The patina and oxidation suggest an older piece of high-quality craftsmanship, likely 40-80 years old or a very high-quality modern reproduction designed to mimic antique Ming/Qing dynasty aesthetics.
- Sustainability Status
- Critically Endangered by the IUCN; listed in CITES Appendix II. Trade is strictly regulated and heavily restricted internationally.
Common Uses
High-end Chinese classical furniture, intricate carving, musical instruments (traditional stringed instruments), luxury turnery, and fine jewelry boxes.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Seshachalam Hills of Andhra Pradesh in Southern India; also cultivated in limited Southeast Asian regions.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and interlocked grain; prone to blunting tools rapidly. It can be carved into incredible detail and takes a very high natural polish with minimal sanding.
Finish Recommendations
Usually finished with high-quality natural wax or left unfinished to allow the natural oils and luster to surface; requires very high grit sanding (up to 2000+) for a glassy feel.
Notable Features
It sinks in water due to high density; possesses a faint, pleasant scent when worked; historically considered one of the most precious woods in the world.
