Lignum Vitae
New grading system for lignum vitae:
AA grade : The grain is fairly straight, no sapwood or checks in the piece that are visible to us. Sometimes called “Bearing grade”
A grade: The grain may have some movement, most or all sapwood gone when turned round, no checks unless truly tiny. Could have tiny bark inclusions or really tiny knots (Bowl blanks may have a small amount of sapwood on one or two edges and can be turned off or left on for effect.)
Figured: Like A grade but has figure in it. May or may not have sapwood. May have glued defects.
B grade: A good piece, and the sapwood varies from 15-40%. No cracks, possible small tight knot and possible small hairline check. Excellent Value, and offers a contrasty look. Requests for high sapwood will be allowed, (not for low sapwood).
C grade: The piece has some deep checks and would reguire some superglue to fix them, if you can’t cut around them. Even if you have to cut these to smaller sizes, they are still very inexpensive. Priced to move.
The pieces below have been color coded to easily see the grade:
🪵 Good to know
Lignum Vitae
(Guaiacum officinale)
This is genuine lignum vitae, not a substitute!
All real lignum vitae has a botanical name that starts with “Guaiacum”.
If you are looking for Argentine lignum,click here.
🇺🇸 Not legal for export from USA!