Harewood (material)

Harewood is wood that has been treated with mineral substances to alter its color. Unlike dyeing processes, making harewood involves a chemical change, rather than simply superimposing color on the material.

Harewood first began appearing on furniture in the 17th century, when sycamore wood was treated with ferrous sulphate. The roots of the tree would be treated with the solution several years before the tree was felled. This mimics natural processes where sometimes trees will become exposed to soil containing certain elements.

Making harewood will generally turn the wood silver or black in color.

Because of its distinctive and contrasting color, harewood is often used in marquetry and parquetry.

References

* Metcalfe, Jack and Apps, John (2003). "The Marquetry Course", London: Batsford. ISBN 9780713488500