How to Identify Pterocarpus lobata: A Comprehensive Guide from Characteristics to Identification
Small-leaf rosewood (scientific name:Pterocarpus santalinus) is one of the most precious woods in the world, prized by collectors for its unique grain, high density and rarity. However, the market is flooded with a large number of imitations, and how to identify authenticity has become the focus of consumers' attention. This article will provide you with identification methods from dimensions such as appearance, smell, density, etc., combined with structured data.
1. Basic characteristics of small-leaf rosewood
| Features | Authentic performance | Counterfeit FAQs |
|---|---|---|
| color | The new cut surface is orange-red, which gradually turns into deep purple or black purple after oxidation. | Stained wood has a dull color with no natural gradation |
| texture | The cow hair pattern is fine and clear, with an amber feel | The texture is rough or too regular |
| smell | Light sandalwood, more noticeable when polishing | Pungent chemical smell or odorless |
| Density | Submerged water (density 1.05-1.26g/cm³) | Some imitations float on the water |
2. Five practical identification methods
1. Observation method
The authentic small-leaf rosewood has irregular distribution of ox hair patterns and is accompanied by fine brown eyes. When observed under strong light, high-quality materials will exhibit a fluorescent effect, commonly known as "Venus".
2. Water test method
If you put sawdust or small materials into water, the original product will sink slowly (because it is denser than water), while most imitation products will float or sink quickly (heavily dyed).
3. Breathalyzer test
Take a small amount of sawdust and put it into alcohol. The genuine wood will gradually ooze red pigment and the solution will change color; dyed wood may fade immediately or not change color.
4. Odor identification
The genuine product will emit a quiet sandalwood fragrance when polished, and the smell will gradually fade after being left for a long time; chemical imitations often have a pungent or fragrance smell.
5. Certificate verification
The appraisal certificate from an authoritative organization is an important basis. In China, you can refer to the following testing standards:
| Test items | Standard value |
|---|---|
| Density | ≥1.05g/cm³ |
| air dry density | 1.12-1.26g/cm³ |
| Fluorescence reaction | Positive (Venus material) |
3. Comparison table of common imitation products
| Replica name | Difference |
|---|---|
| Blood sandalwood | Color is bright red, no fluorescence reaction |
| Siam rosewood | The texture is thicker and the density is lower |
| Ketan | No sandalwood fragrance, brown eyes are sparse |
| dyed rosewood willow | Blisters fade, no oiliness |
4. Purchase suggestions
1. Choose a reputable merchant and ask for a material identification certificate
2. Newbies are advised to start with small items (such as bracelets) to avoid the risk of large-ticket investments.
3. Be wary of marketing rhetoric such as "old materials" and "house demolition materials", as genuine products have very little circulation.
4. Most of the products with prices lower than the average market price (the current raw material price is about 800-1500 yuan/jin) are imitations.
5. Maintenance instructions
Genuine red sandalwood needs to avoid: ① long-term exposure to the sun, ② contact with chemical reagents, ③ extreme humidity changes. You can use cotton cloth to play with it every day. The patina formed by natural oxidation is the best protective layer.
Comprehensive judgment through the above methods can effectively reduce purchase risks. Remember:Three core characteristics of genuine small-leaf rosewood——Sinking water, sandalwood, and fluorescent reaction are all indispensable. Be sure to verify with multiple parties before collecting, and don't be greedy for cheap.
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