OUR MATERIALS || EXOTIC HARDWOOD || ZIRICOTE WOOD

ZIRICOTE WOOD

Alternative Names & Variations: Zircote, Ziracote

Color: Medium to Dark Brown, Sometimes with a Green or Purple Hue

Hardness: Hard

Sustainability Status: Very Sustainable / Stable Species Population

Characteristics: Ziricote wood showcases a rich color spectrum, ranging from warm browns to deeper tones, often characterized by a distinctive "spider-webbing" grain pattern. Its unique grain patterns and color variations make it an excellent choice for crafting visually appealing pieces.

Despite its density, working with Ziricote wood is relatively easy, and its natural resistance to decay enhances durability, contributing to its popularity in various applications. The high cost of Ziricote wood reflects its exceptional qualities; it is highly sought after for high-end furniture, musical instruments, and specialty items. It is considered more expensive than many other rosewoods and is comparable to high-end species, such as Macassar Ebony wood.

STRENGTHS

  • Very easy to work with hand and machine tools. Alder wood is soft, sands easily, and finishes well.

  • Alder wood is abundant in the US, making it accessible for small and large-scale projects.

  • Once fully dried, Alder wood is sturdy, exhibiting minimal twisting or alterations in finished products.

  • Alder is more affordable than other hardwoods, making it a great option for budget-minded shoppers.

WEAKNESSES

  • Alder wood is not always the best option in terms of rot resistance. Alder wood is best for indoor furniture; it turns to pulp in moist, warm conditions.

  • Some may exhibit allergies to Alder tree pollen. In extreme cases, sensitivities to wood dust or wood oils may occur.

  • Despite being a hardwood, Alder wood is relatively soft. To protect the finish from knicks and dents, caution is needed against sharp objects.

ZIRICOTE WOOD ALTERNATIVES