While highly figured tiger oak lumber commands a premium due to its unique grain and specialized milling, antique tiger oak furniture is generally not considered expensive in today's market, having seen a significant decline in demand since its peak popularity.
Understanding Tiger Oak's Value
Tiger oak refers to the distinctive ray fleck pattern that appears when oak wood, particularly white oak, is quartersawn. This milling technique cuts the log at a different angle, revealing a stunning, striped, or "tiger" effect in the grain. It's not a separate species of oak but a specific aesthetic outcome.
Factors Influencing Tiger Oak Pricing
The perceived value and cost of tiger oak can vary significantly based on several key elements:
- Rarity and Quality of the Figure: The more prominent and consistent the "tiger" pattern, the more desirable and potentially expensive the wood.
- Form (Lumber vs. Furniture): Raw tiger oak lumber (quartersawn oak) is more costly than plain sawn oak due to the more intricate milling process, which yields less usable wood from a log. Finished furniture pieces have their own valuation metrics.
- Age and Condition (for Antiques): For antique pieces, original condition, structural integrity, and any restoration work play a crucial role.
- Current Market Trends and Demand: Like any commodity or collectible, the value of tiger oak is heavily influenced by prevailing styles and consumer interest.
- Craftsmanship: The quality of construction and artistry of a piece of furniture can elevate its value, regardless of the wood.
Tiger Oak in the Antique Market
Interest in antique tiger oak furniture, which often includes grand pieces like dining sets, buffets, and curio cabinets, reached its zenith in the late 20th century. However, market trends have shifted, and its popularity has since waned.
Today, antique tiger oak furniture typically sells for more modest prices compared to its historical peak. For example, a complete set of antique tiger oak furniture might currently command a price in the $800 to $1,600 range. This lower valuation suggests it's not an opportune time to sell such pieces for significant returns. Many experts advise that these items are better held onto or passed down through generations, anticipating a potential future resurgence in demand.
| Aspect | Late 20th Century (Peak Demand) | Current Market (2020s) |
|---|---|---|
| Market Interest | High | Low to Moderate, considered "out of style" |
| Value (for a set) | Higher | $800 - $1,600 (for a typical antique set) |
| Recommendation | Good time to sell | Better to hold onto or pass down, not ideal for selling now |
(Source: General antique market trends and appraisal insights)
Tiger Oak Lumber and New Creations
For those looking to purchase raw tiger oak lumber for woodworking projects, expect to pay a premium over standard plain sawn oak. This is due to:
- Specialized Milling: Quartersawing is a less efficient use of the log, producing narrower boards and more waste, which increases the cost per board foot.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The distinctive ray fleck pattern is highly sought after by artisans and furniture makers for its unique visual depth and stability.
New furniture or custom pieces crafted from high-quality quartersawn oak featuring the tiger pattern would naturally be more expensive than items made from standard oak. The price would reflect the cost of the premium lumber, the skill involved in its selection, and the labor of the craftsman.
For more details on wood types and their characteristics, you can explore resources like The Wood Database or learn about lumber grades and pricing from reputable lumber suppliers.
Is Tiger Oak a Good Investment?
As a raw material, high-quality quartersawn oak with tiger figuring will likely always retain a good value within woodworking communities due to its inherent beauty and stability.
For antique furniture, while current market values are low, the intrinsic quality and historical significance of well-preserved tiger oak pieces mean they still hold cultural value. Investment potential for antiques often cycles, so holding onto a piece could see its value appreciate in the long term, though this is not guaranteed.
