Trade Names
Amara, Macassar
Similar Woods
Origin
Asia, Southeast Asia
Range
Indonesia, especially on the Moluccas. Amara is the same species like Macassar, however, it grows on other Indonesian islands. Consequently, the look is different.
Uses
As the original Macassar has become rarer and rarer and also more narrow, Indonesian suppliers switched to this type of Macassar which offers much better dimensions but has reddish colour shades instead of white and grey shades instead of black. Today, far more Amara is used than Macassar.
Properties
The wood is dark grey to black with regular or irregular reddish streaks. The wood has a distinct sheen and is most decorative.
Machining
Despite its extreme hardness Amara is not particularly difficult to work. Very smooth surfaces are given when planed. Sawdust should be efficiently extracted because of the risk of inflammation of the eyes and skin.
Seasoning
Since Amara is prone to checking it should be dried very slowly and carefully. It should definitely be kept out of the sun.
Finishing
Due to its decorative marking, silky luster or polished surfaces are to be recommended and these finishes stake without any great difficulty.
Jointing
Glue joints are easy to produce and hold well. Nail joints are very difficult to produce and screw joints must be pre-drilled.