Wood is a versatile and durable material that has been used for centuries in a wide range of applications, from construction and furniture to decorative arts and crafts. However, not all wood is created equal, and some types are significantly more expensive than others due to their rarity, quality, and unique properties. In this article, we will take a look at the 10 most expensive wood in the world, from the exotic and luxurious to the highly sought-after and valuable. Whether you’re a woodworker, designer, or collector, these woods are sure to impress and inspire.
10 Most Expensive Wood in the World
| No | Most Expensive Wood | Price |
| 1 | First-grade agarwood | $100,000 Per Kilogram |
| 2 | Sandalwood | $20,000 Per Kilogram |
| 3 | Ebony | $10,000 Per Kilogram |
| 4 | African Blackwood | $10,000 Per Kilogram |
| 5 | Agar Wood | $10,000 Per Kilogram |
| 6 | Brazilian Rosewood (Dalbergia nigra) |
$80 ~ $150 Per Board Foot
|
| 7 | Lignum vitae |
$90 Per Board Foot
|
| 8 | Ironwood | $90 Per Board Foot |
| 9 | Pink Ivory | $80 Per Board Foot |
| 10 | Ziricote wood | $60 Per board foot |
First-grade agarwood
First-grade agarwood is the most expensive wood in the world. First-grade agarwood refers to the highest quality of agarwood, which is a dark, resinous wood that is highly valued for its fragrance and medicinal properties. It is typically harvested from wild trees that are at least 20 years old and has a strong, sweet aroma with a deep, rich color. First-grade agarwood is considered the most desirable and sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is the 2nd most expensive wood in the world. Sandalwood is a fragrant wood from trees in the genus Santalum. The woods are heavy, yellow, and fine-grained, and unlike many other aromatic woods, they retain their fragrance for decades. Sandalwood oil is extracted from the woods for use. Sandalwood is used for carving, incense, perfumes, and medicines. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicine, and for religious purposes in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. The tree is considered sacred in India and is often planted around Hindu and Buddhist temples and shrines. The two main species of sandalwood used for commercial purposes are Santalum album and Santalum spicatum.
Ebony
Ebony is the 3rd most expensive wood in the world. Ebony is a dense black wood, most commonly derived from various species of the genus Diospyros, which are found in tropical regions around the world. It is often used in high-end furniture and musical instruments, as well as for carving and inlay work. The color and durability of ebony make it a desirable material for many luxury items.
African Blackwood
African Blackwood is the 4th most expensive wood in the world. French Blackwood is a type of wood that is native to the West African savannah regions, specifically in Senegal, Ghana, and the Ivory Coast. It is known for its dark color and dense, heavy wood grain. It is a popular choice for furniture and musical instruments, such as clarinets and saxophones. The wood is also used for flooring, decorative carvings, and other decorative items. It is a hardwood, with a Janka hardness rating of 2,310 lbf (10,300 N). Due to its popularity, French Blackwood is considered a rare and valuable wood species.
Agar Wood
Agar Wood is the 5th most expensive wood in the world. Agar Wood, also known as oud or aloeswood, is a highly prized, fragrant wood that comes from the Aquilaria tree. The tree is native to Southeast Asia and produces a resin when it is infected by a specific fungus. This resin is then harvested, processed, and used to make a variety of products such as incense, perfumes, and traditional medicine. Agar Wood is considered a luxury product and is often used in high-end perfumes and aromatherapy products. It is also used in traditional Chinese and Islamic medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Due to over-harvesting and illegal logging, Agar Wood is now considered a threatened species and is protected by international trade laws.
Brazilian Rosewood (Dalbergia nigra)
Brazilian Rosewood (Dalbergia nigra) is the 6th most expensive wood in the world. Brazilian Rosewood, also known as Jacaranda or Pau-Rosa, is a species of hardwood tree that is native to Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It is known for its rich, dark color and striking grain patterns that make it a popular choice for high-end furniture, flooring, and musical instruments. The tree can grow up to 60 meters tall and has a wide, spreading crown. The leaves are pinnate and the flowers are small and white.
Brazilian Rosewood is highly prized for its durability and resistance to decay, making it a popular choice for outdoor furniture and decking. It is also used for decorative veneers, inlays, and carvings. The wood is also known for its rich, warm tone, making it a popular choice for guitar and violin makers.
Due to over-harvesting and habitat destruction, Brazilian Rosewood is now considered an endangered species and is protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The export and sale of Brazilian Rosewood is strictly regulated and the use of the wood is limited to those who have obtained a CITES permit.
Lignum vitae
Lignum vitae is the 7th most expensive wood in the world. Lignum vitae is a type of wood that comes from the Guaiacum officinale and Guaiacum sanctum trees, which are native to Central and South America. It is known for its exceptional strength and density, as well as its resistance to decay and wear. It has a deep green color and a distinctive, oily texture. Due to its unique properties, lignum vitae has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history, including as bearings in machinery, as well as for shipbuilding and other marine applications.
Ironwood
Ironwood is the 8th most expensive wood in the world. Ironwood is a type of hardwood tree that is known for its durability and strength. It is often used in construction, furniture making, and other industrial applications. Some common types of ironwood include mesquite, hickory, and oak. Ironwood trees are typically found in warm and dry regions, such as deserts and savannas. They are also known for their resistance to pests and diseases, making them a popular choice for outdoor furniture and decking.
Pink Ivory
Pink Ivory is the 9th most expensive wood in the world. Pink ivory is a rare and highly sought-after wood that is prized for its unique pinkish-red color. It is native to South Africa and is a hardwood species that is known for its durability and strength. Pink ivory wood is often used in high-end furniture, cabinetry, and decorative items. It is also used in the manufacture of luxury goods such as pens, knife handles, and jewelry. Due to its scarcity, pink ivory wood is considered a luxury item and commands a high price. It is also protected by laws in South Africa to ensure its continued survival.
Ziricote wood
Ziricote wood is the 10th most expensive wood in the world. Ziricote wood is a type of hardwood that is native to Mexico and Central America. It is known for its unique and striking grain patterns, which can include swirling, curly, and interlocking patterns. The wood is also known for its durability and resistance to rot and decay. It is commonly used in furniture, cabinetry, and decorative woodwork, as well as in the construction of musical instruments such as guitars and ukuleles. The wood is also prized for its natural luster and can be polished to a high shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much wood could a woodchuck chucl?
According to a study conducted by wildlife biologist Richard Thomas, a woodchuck could chuck approximately 700 pounds of wood if a woodchuck could chuck wood. However, it should be noted that woodchucks do not actually chuck wood as they are not capable of moving large amounts of it due to their small size and burrowing nature.
How much is a cord of wood?
The cost of a cord of wood can vary depending on location, type of wood, and supplier. On average, a cord of wood can cost anywhere from $150 to $450. However, in some areas, the cost can be higher or lower depending on the availability and demand for wood. It’s best to check with local suppliers for current pricing in your area.
How to stain wood?
- Start by preparing the wood surface. Sand the wood to remove any rough spots or imperfections. Clean the wood with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
- Choose the type of stain you want to use. There are various types of stains available, including oil-based, water-based, and gel stains. Each has its own properties, so it’s important to choose the right one for your project.
- Apply the stain to the wood using a brush or a rag. Work in sections, starting at one end of the wood and working your way to the other end. Be sure to apply the stain evenly and in the same direction as the grain of the wood.
- Allow the stain to sit on the wood for the recommended time. Different stains have different drying times, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wipe off any excess stain with a clean rag. Be sure to wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid leaving any streaks.
- Allow the stain to dry completely before applying a clear coat or varnish to protect the wood.
- Repeat the staining process if necessary, to achieve the desired color and finish.
- Once the wood is dry, you can now use it for your project.
How to clean wood floors?
- Start by sweeping or dry-mopping the floor to remove any loose dirt or debris.
- Mix a mild cleaning solution of warm water and a small amount of dish soap or wood floor cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers.
- Dip a mop or a soft cloth into the solution and wring it out well.
- Begin cleaning the floor by working in small sections, starting in the farthest corner of the room and working your way towards the door. Use a gentle, circular motion to clean the floor.
- Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe up any remaining solution or suds. Be sure to rinse the cloth frequently to avoid leaving excess water on the floor.
- Dry the floor with a clean, dry towel or mop. Avoid using a lot of water when cleaning hardwood floors, as it can cause warping or discoloration.
- Apply a wood floor polish or wax to keep the floor looking shiny and protected.
- Repeat the process as needed, depending on the level of foot traffic in your home.
What is MDF wood?
MDF (medium-density fiberboard) is a type of engineered wood product made from wood fibers that are broken down and then compressed with resin and heat to create a dense, stable board. It is often used for furniture, cabinetry, and other building materials because of its uniform texture and strength. Unlike solid wood, MDF does not have natural variations in grain or color, and it is less likely to warp or split. However, it is not as durable as solid wood and may be more prone to damage from water or high humidity.
What is engineered wood?
Engineered wood, also known as composite wood or man-made wood, is a type of wood product that is made by combining wood fibers, particles, or veneers with a binding agent, such as glue or resin. The resulting material is stronger and more stable than solid wood, and is often used in construction, furniture-making, and flooring. Some examples of engineered wood products include plywood, particleboard, and laminated veneer lumber.
How big is a cord of wood?
A cord of wood is a unit of measurement that is equal to 128 cubic feet of stacked firewood. This typically includes logs that measure 4 feet long by 8 inches in diameter. The exact size of a cord of wood may vary slightly depending on the type of wood and the measurements used to stack the logs.
How to remove paint from wood?
- Start by scraping off as much paint as you can using a paint scraper or putty knife. Be careful not to damage the wood underneath.
- Next, apply a paint stripper to the remaining paint. Follow the instructions on the product and leave it on for the recommended time.
- Use a scraper or wire brush to remove the paint. Be sure to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
- If there is still paint remaining, use a chemical paint remover specifically designed for wood. Follow the instructions carefully and use in a well-ventilated area.
- Sand the wood to remove any remaining paint and smooth out the surface.
- Finally, clean the wood with a mild detergent and warm water to remove any residue. Let it dry completely before applying any new paint or finish.
What is a cord of wood?
A cord of wood is a unit of measurement used to measure the amount of firewood. It is equal to 128 cubic feet of wood, or a stack of wood measuring 4 feet wide, 4 feet high, and 8 feet long.
Why do woodpeckers peck wood?
Woodpeckers peck wood for a variety of reasons, including:
- Foraging for food: Woodpeckers peck wood to find and extract insects and grubs that live inside the wood. They are able to find these insects by listening for the sound they make when they move inside the wood.
- Nesting: Woodpeckers also peck wood to create holes for nesting. They will peck out holes in trees or other wood structures to create a safe and secure home for themselves and their young.
- Communication: Woodpeckers also use pecking as a way to communicate with other woodpeckers. They will peck out a rhythm or pattern on a tree to signal to other woodpeckers where they are or to claim a territory.
- Territory Marking: Woodpeckers will also peck on wood to mark their territory. They will do this by pecking on wood in a specific pattern, which is unique to each individual woodpecker.
Overall, woodpeckers peck wood for survival needs such as foraging for food, nest-making and territory marking or communicating with other woodpeckers.
How to whitewash wood?
- Prepare the wood: Clean the wood surface thoroughly to remove dirt, dust, and any other debris. Sand the surface to remove any rough spots or imperfections.
- Mix the whitewash solution: In a large bucket, mix water and white paint or a whitewash mixture of water, white paint, and a small amount of lime. Adjust the ratio of water and paint to achieve the desired consistency.
- Apply the whitewash: Using a paintbrush, apply the whitewash mixture to the wood surface in a thin, even layer. Be sure to work in small sections to prevent the whitewash from drying too quickly.
- Distress the wood: If desired, use a wire brush or sandpaper to lightly distress the wood, creating a rustic, weathered look.
- Seal the wood: Allow the whitewash to dry completely, then apply a sealant to protect the wood and lock in the whitewash.
- Finish: Allow the sealant to dry completely before using or displaying the whitewashed wood.
