Golden yellow pear

The wood of Huanghuali is exceptionally stable, resistant to warping, cracking, or bending. It possesses natural flexibility, allowing it to be shaped into intricate designs such as three-bend legs and complex curves. The golden hue of the sapwood contrasts beautifully with the rich, deep tones of the heartwood, which often features striking patterns resembling fox heads, old men’s faces, or even "ghost faces"—a term used to describe its mesmerizing grain. These natural patterns add to its artistic value and make each piece one-of-a-kind.

Huanghuali was the preferred material for many high-end furniture pieces during the Ming and Qing dynasties, especially among scholars and literati who appreciated its refined beauty and durability. Historical records, such as the Tang Dynasty's "Herbal Supplement," mention its use in beds and other luxury items. However, due to overharvesting, the supply of Hainan Huanghuali drastically declined by the mid-Qing period, leading to its replacement with other woods like rosewood.

Experts have noted that Hainan Huanghuali contains natural oils that enhance its durability and aesthetics. It can be crafted into furniture without the need for paint, develops a beautiful patina over time, and resists rot and decay. These qualities make it superior to most other woods. As a result, it has become a hot target for collectors, with some pieces fetching extraordinary prices. In recent years, even small items like rolling pins or old pot lids made from genuine Hainan Huanghuali have been exchanged for gold.

Today, while Hainan remains the primary source of Huanghuali, Vietnamese Huanghuali has also been identified as the same species, though it is generally considered less valuable due to differences in grain and density. Despite this, the two types are now recognized as the same wood, just grown in different regions. However, Hainan Huanghuali still commands a much higher price, with some pieces reaching up to 9,000 yuan per kilogram.

Not only is Hainan Huanghuali expensive, but it is also highly sought after globally. A set of antique Huanghuali furniture once sold for 68 million yuan at an international luxury exhibition in Wenzhou. Even the San Francisco Museum holds a collection of ancient Hainan Huanghuali chairs valued at around $7 million. With such demand, Vietnam has recently banned the export of its Huanghuali to protect its dwindling reserves, further increasing the scarcity and value of the real Hainan variety.

As the market continues to grow, the price gap between Vietnamese and Hainan Huanghuali is expected to narrow. While they are the same species, the superior quality and historical significance of Hainan Huanghuali ensure it remains the most coveted and valuable type of rosewood in the world.