Trade Names
Louro Faia, Brazilian Silky Oak
Similar Woods
European Lacewood, Australian Lacewood, Indian Silver Oak
Origin
South America
Range
Northern and central parts of South America with main growing area in Brazil. Hardly any literature available on this particularly special species due to the fact of its small importance economy-wise and also due to the many wood species growing in South America.
Uses
Not known very well in Europe, Brazilian Lacewood has been used there for interior construction only and, since the end of the nineties, also for dashboards in cars. In South and North America also used in furniture and parquet productions, sometimes also for decks of ships. Veneers are readily available in good dimensions and can be procured in medium quantities without a problem.
Properties
Due to distinct and very regular center rays, a highly decorative picture develops when this species is worked up in quartier resembling snakeskin. Colourvaries from deep pink to dark brown, depending on steaming time.
Machining
Brazilian Lacewood is easy to work with all tools.
Seasoning
Highly prone to warping. Must be dried with care.
Finishing
Surface treatment of Brazilian Lacewood presents no difficulties. Its decorative structure is highlighted best when surfaces are polished to a bright luster.
Jointing
Joints are easy to produce with glue, screws and nails and have good tensile strength.