Curly Mango wood

"Curly" in this context describes a distinct grain pattern within the wood, rather than a separate tree species. It refers specifically to Mango wood (Mangifera indica) that exhibits a characteristic wavy or "flame" figure, caused by an unusual directional growth of its fibers.
Origin and Distribution: Like regular mango, curly mango comes from trees grown in tropical and subtropical regions across Asia (India, Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines) and worldwide. This particular figure does not occur in all mango trees.
Appearance of Curly Mango Wood:
Color: The base color of mango wood varies from light yellow or cream (sapwood) to golden-brown, medium-brown, or even reddish-brown (heartwood). The curly figure often stands out against this background, creating an interplay of light and shadow. Other color streaks or mineral inclusions may also be present.
Figure: This is its most prominent feature. The wood fibers do not run straight but have a wavy or undulating form, which gives the surface a three-dimensional effect, as if it "moves" under different lighting angles. This effect is often referred to as "flame figure" or "tiger stripe."
Texture: Medium to coarse, with a noticeable natural luster.
Scent: Typically has a very light or almost imperceptible scent, characteristic of mango wood.
Properties of Curly Mango Wood:
Density and Hardness: Curly Mango possesses the same density and hardness as regular mango – it is moderately dense and hard. It is not considered a super-hard wood but is sufficiently strong for many applications.
Stability: It is considered moderately stable after proper drying. The wavy fiber structure can sometimes present minor challenges during drying, but overall the wood is stable.
Durability: The heartwood has moderate natural resistance to decay and insects.
Workability:
It polishes excellently to a very smooth and lustrous surface, which maximally reveals its unique "curly" figure and play of light.
Applications:
Musical Instruments: Curly Mango is very popular for crafting guitars, ukuleles, and other stringed instruments, where its beautiful appearance and good acoustic properties are valued.
High-End Furniture and Decorative Elements: Used for creating exclusive furniture, tabletops, boxes, panels, and other decorative accents where its unique figure becomes the central feature.
Turning: Ideally suited for turned items such as bowls, vases, and tool handles, where the "curly" figure can be fully showcased.
Knifemaking: Curly Mango is a highly sought-after material for knife handles. Its stunning appearance, and the play of light and shadow, make each handle a unique work of art. To enhance the strength, stability, and durability of handles, stabilization with polymer resins is very frequently used, making it a premium choice for custom and collector knives.
Conclusion:
Curly Mango wood is a highly prized Asian timber distinguished by its captivating, wavy, or "flame" figure. While its density and hardness are moderate, its unique aesthetic makes it a desirable material for high-quality decorative items, musical instruments, and especially for exclusive knife handles (often after stabilization), where its visual dynamism is fully brought to life.

LATIN: MANGIFERA INDICA