Purple Heart

Cutting cost $3 per cut. Leaving your cut list at the check out and we will contact you. Or contact us via email or WhatsApp to discuss your needs.

Please contact us for availability of plank sizes. We have limited stock of different sizes (website stock may not be accurate). Better still, come down and have a look at our stock and chat with us for wood advice and application.

Purpleheart wood, derived from the Peltogyne genus found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, is a unique and visually striking hardwood renowned for its vibrant purple color. This exotic wood is favored for its beauty, durability, and strength, making it a popular choice for a wide range of carpentry and woodworking projects that seek to make a bold statement.

Appearance: Purpleheart is most notable for its deep purple hue, which can range from a light violet to a darker purplish-brown, depending on the light exposure and age of the wood. Over time, the wood naturally darkens to a rich purple or brownish-purple, though this process can be slowed with the application of UV-inhibiting finishes. The grain of purpleheart is typically straight but can occasionally be wavy or interlocked, adding to its visual appeal. Its texture is fine to medium, with a natural luster that enhances its exotic appearance.

Characteristics & Properties: Purpleheart is exceptionally durable and hard, offering high resistance to both physical wear and biological threats such as decay and insects. This makes it an excellent material for projects requiring longevity and strength. Despite its density, purpleheart has good dimensional stability, maintaining its shape well under varying environmental conditions.

Workability: Working with purpleheart can be challenging due to its hardness and density. It requires sharp tools to cut and shape effectively, and care must be taken to prevent blunting of blades. While it machines well with the right equipment, purpleheart can be difficult to glue and screw without pre-drilling. The wood finishes beautifully, highlighting its unique color and grain, though it may require some effort to smooth out due to its density.

Applications: Purpleheart's striking appearance and durability make it suitable for a variety of applications. It is often used in fine furniture and cabinetry, where its color can serve as a focal point or accent. Purpleheart is also popular for decorative items, such as picture frames, jewelry boxes, and inlays, where its unique hue adds a touch of elegance. In addition, the wood's strength and resistance to decay make it a good choice for outdoor applications like decking, garden furniture, and architectural details. Its hardness and durability are also advantageous in the creation of flooring and heavy-duty industrial applications.

In summary, purpleheart wood is a distinctive and high-quality material that offers both aesthetic beauty and practical durability. Its vibrant purple color, combined with its strength and resistance to wear, makes it a sought-after choice for a wide range of projects, from artisan crafts to high-impact outdoor constructions. Despite its workability challenges, the end results can be stunning, making purpleheart a prized material among woodworkers and carpenters looking to create truly exceptional pieces.