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Identification of ebony (gloomy wood)
Sultan wood, also known as carbonized wood, is a unique type of timber that results from natural carbonization processes in specific tree species under special geographical conditions. It exists in a state between wood and carbon, maintaining its woody structure while exhibiting the characteristics of charcoal. This wood is often dark in color, ranging from deep black to dark brown, with a texture resembling coke or burnt charcoal. The deeper the carbonization, the more it resembles coal, though not all carbonized wood reaches that stage.
In traditional beliefs, sultan wood has been associated with myths about spirits or supernatural forces, which have added an air of mystery around its identification. These stories are part of cultural folklore rather than scientific fact, and they often contribute to the enigmatic perception of this rare material.
Sultan wood belongs to the broader category of charcoal wood, and its appearance reflects the degree of carbonization. The longer a tree remains in a low-oxygen environment, the higher the level of carbonization. This process can take thousands of years, leading to what is commonly referred to as "gloomy wood" — a term used to describe highly carbonized, ancient timber. Some pieces may only partially sink in water, indicating incomplete carbonization, but true gloomy wood typically sinks due to its density and age.
Common types of gloomy wood include willow, Cyclobalanopsis, camphor, Phoebe nanmu, red ash, yew, horsewood, cork, eucalyptus, and sandalwood. Trees with strong aromatic properties and antibacterial qualities are more likely to develop into gloomy wood, though not all such trees produce a scent. The presence of fragrance depends on the tree's geographic origin and environmental conditions.
One notable example is the large 3-meter-diameter ebony found along the Mianyuan River in Deyang City, which highlights the rich ecological history of the region. Sultan wood is known for its extreme hardness, even harder than ironwood or redwood. When properly treated, it can sink in water, making it ideal for crafting high-quality furniture and art pieces. Its surface is smooth, with fine grain and a polished finish that can reflect light like a mirror. Some varieties resemble red sandalwood in appearance, and they retain their color and integrity over time without fading, decaying, or attracting pests.
Compared to regular wood, sultan wood has distinct characteristics. While most wood produces white ash when burned, sultan wood leaves yellow ash. Its color deepens when exposed to water and returns to its original hue when dry. Small pieces of sultan wood often float on water, so submerging them alone is not a reliable method to determine authenticity. The outer layer is usually discarded, and only the inner heartwood is used, as the surface is too heavily carbonized to be practical.
This rare and valuable material has been cherished for centuries, both for its beauty and durability, and continues to be sought after by artisans and collectors worldwide.