The popularity of mahogany, huanghuali, and red sandalwood furniture has sparked a trend in the luxury wood market, and now Phoebe chinensis—also known as Jinsi Nanmu—is experiencing a similar surge. Over the past year, its price has skyrocketed by 3 to 5 times, making it one of the most sought-after materials in the industry.
Phoebe chinensis is a rare and slow-growing hardwood with a long maturation cycle. Historically, it was reserved for imperial use, earning it the title of "the wood of the emperor." Its unique qualities—such as golden streaks, rich luster, and resistance to warping—have made it increasingly popular among collectors and interior design enthusiasts.
This year alone, the price of Phoebe chinensis has surged dramatically. At the beginning of last year, old material was priced between 30,000 to 40,000 yuan per ton, but this year, it has reached hundreds of thousands of yuan per ton. The value of furniture made from this wood is even higher, ranging from thousands to millions of yuan depending on craftsmanship and rarity.
In auction markets, the demand for Phoebe chinensis continues to rise. Recently, a set of handcrafted Qibao beads made from old Jinsi Nanmu by Beijing Gongmei Group sold for an impressive one million yuan, highlighting the growing interest and investment potential in this rare material.
However, due to the high value of Phoebe chinensis, the market is flooded with counterfeit and low-quality products. Collectors must be cautious and learn how to distinguish real pieces from fakes. Here are some key ways to identify genuine Jinsi Nanmu:
First, look at the color. The heartwood of Phoebe sylvestris typically has a light yellowish-green tone, while older materials tend to darken over time. Newer pieces may appear more earthy or grayish.
Second, check the scent. Old materials often have a deep, pleasant fragrance, whereas new ones may have a lighter or less distinct smell.
Third, measure the density. Genuine Jinsi Nanmu is dense and heavy, which can help differentiate it from cheaper substitutes.
For beginners, it's best to start with smaller items like tea trays, pen holders, or small decorative screens. These allow you to get a feel for the material without a large investment. It’s also important to pay attention to the craftsmanship—especially the carving details. Avoid investing blindly; instead, educate yourself, study real examples, and learn to recognize authentic pieces. With patience and knowledge, collecting Phoebe chinensis can be both rewarding and enjoyable.
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