purple heart wood ??

[tump]

Is it common for purple heart to have white flecks or checks in it. I haven't used it before and as i got sanding into it there islittle white spots in the grain.

 

[Stark Knives]

I've used it twice but didn't notice that. Including a picture would probably help get you an answer.

 

[Willie71]

Post a picture. I've used a few pieces, but haven't seen what you are imagining.

 

[Matt River]

I have had flecks from dust in pores of purple heart when turning it on lathe. Not sure about rays in that lumber if quartersawn.

 

[C_Claycomb]

I have seen that. My immediate thought was that it was silica, but I wasn't 100% sure of my memory, so went looking on-line. That is what folk say it is.

This chap had exactly the same question back in 2011:
http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?166425-white-pores-in-purple-heart&

And this chap mentions the white pores, but doesn't know what it is....however, he posts LOTS of pictures of purple heart! Probably all anyone would want to see!

http://www.hobbithouseinc.com/personal/woodpics/purpleheart.htm

The picture that looks like what I have seen was this one, about 1/3 the way down his page

Explains why the stuff isn't much fun to work with steel tools.

 

[tump]

Thats the stuff C_ Claycomb thanks for the links