Amboyna burl comes from the Amboyna tree (Pterocarpus indicus), a species of rosewood native to Southeast Asia, primarily:

• Indonesia (especially the Moluccas / Ambon Islands)

• Malaysia

• Papua New Guinea

• Southern Philippines

The burl forms as a dense, abnormal growth on the trunk or roots of the tree, creating the swirling, chaotic grain that makes it so valuable.

Appearance & Grain

Amboyna burl is famous for its tight, high-contrast figure and depth.

Key visual traits:

• Dense eye clusters with swirling, flame-like movement

• Fine, tight burl grain (much tighter than many North American burls)

• Natural chatoyance (3D “shimmer” effect when finished)

• Often shows dramatic depth even in small pieces

Color range:

• Golden honey

• Orange-brown

• Reddish brown

• Dark burgundy or wine tones

Color often deepens with age and finishing oils.

Density & Working Properties

• Very dense and hard

• Fine texture

• Naturally oily (typical of rosewoods)

• Polishes extremely well

• Excellent stability when properly dried or stabilized

Working notes:

• Sharp tools required

• Can burn if machined aggressively

• Sands to a glass-like surface

• Takes CA, oil, lacquer, and French polish exceptionally well

Because of its density and oil content, many craftsmen still prefer stabilization for small precision items.

Common Uses

Amboyna burl has historically been reserved for high-end applications:

• Custom knife scales

• Gun grips & firearm stocks

• Jewelry boxes & humidors

• Luxury veneers

• Turned objects (pens, bowls, knobs)

• Musical instrument accents

• High-end automotive and yacht interiors

It has been used for centuries in fine furniture, cabinetry, and royal decorative work.

Rarity & Value

• True amboyna burl is limited and increasingly scarce

• Large, high-quality burls are rare

• Tight, clean burl with minimal voids commands premium prices

• Veneer-grade burl is especially valuable

Because of restrictions and depletion, authentic amboyna burl is often confused with or substituted by other burls, but the tight eye pattern and color depth set it apart.