Goncalo Alves, also known as Tigerwood, is a type of hardwood sourced from the tree species Astronium spp. Native to various parts of Central and South America, this wood is highly prized for its exquisite beauty, durability, and exceptional strength.
Goncalo Alves has a distinctive orange-brown to reddish-brown color with alternating dark and light streaks that create a captivating figure, resembling the patterns on a tiger's coat. This unique visual appeal makes this wood highly sought after for decorative and ornamental purposes, such as furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and veneers.
In addition to its visual attractiveness, Goncalo Alves possesses commendable physical properties. It is renowned for its great density and hardness, rendering it resistant to wear, pests, and decay. This durability allows the wood to maintain its strength even in high-traffic areas, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Goncalo Alves is a popular choice among woodworkers and artisans due to its workability. It is moderately difficult to work with hand and power tools, requiring sharp cutting edges and slower speeds to prevent splitting or tearing. To achieve a smooth finish, it may require extra care and some sanding.
Considering its exceptional appearance and robust nature, Goncalo Alves wood is highly regarded in the international market. However, due to its limited availability and the sustainable logging practices required for its conservation, it is considered a specialty wood, making it relatively more expensive than other common hardwood options.
