Purple Heart
Color Range
Initial Color: When freshly cut, the heartwood is a dull grayish-brown. Oxidation: Within minutes to hours of exposure to air and light, it undergoes a rapid chemical reaction, transforming into a bright, vivid purple. Aging (Patina): Over time, continued exposure to UV light causes the wood to transition again, eventually settling into a dark brownish-purple or near-black. Using a UV-inhibiting finish can slow this process.
Grain
Typically straight, though it can sometimes be wavy or irregular.
Texture
It has a medium- to-fine texture with a good natural luster.
Other Names
Other names here.
Typical Uses
Accents and Inlays: Widely used as a decorative "pop" of color in cutting boards, jewelry boxes, and furniture inlays. High-End Accessories: It remains popular for custom pens, knife handles, and watch faces. Heavy Duty: Due to its rot resistance and strength, it is used for high-end decking, bridge joists, and boatbuilding. Tonewood: Used in musical instruments, such as guitar components and drums, for its resonance and tonal clarity
Weight
5.02
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lbs /Bd. Ft. | 40.22% heavier than red oak (3.58 /bd. ft.)
Hardness
2390
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Janka Rating | 85.27% harder than red oak (1290 psi)
Density
0.79
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Specific Gravity | 23.44% more dense than red oak (.64)
Strength, Stability, and Durability
Rated as very durable, it is naturally resistant to decay, rot, and most insect attacks.
Workability / Finishing
Tool Dulling: Its extreme density and high mineral content quickly dull steel cutting tools. Carbide-tipped tools are strongly recommended. Burning and Resin: If tools are dull or machine speeds are too slow, the wood can overheat and exude a gummy resin. This resin can clog machinery and leave dark burn marks that are difficult to sand out. Fastening: Because it is brittle and dense, pre-drilling is mandatory for screws or nails to prevent splitting.