Featured Is this Lignum Vitae?

I have this Victorian Beehive string holder but cannot decide if it is made from Lignum Vitae or not. The wood is very dense and heavy for its size but I am not too sure, any thoughts please?

 

Hi Skerry!

You forgot your photos...............

Choose Full Image when posting them.

 

I know, its been a while since I posted last, my mind got confused ... I think I have the photo up now.

 

It looks like lignum vitae to me.

 

You could see if it sinks in water.

 

Thank you for your reply. I was 80% sure it was Lignum, 20% walnut but I am sure you are right. Thanks.

 

That is an option I know because Lignum sinks.... I just didn't want to get it wet

 

in turned lignum vitae pieces, there is usually a trace of butter yellow contrasting with the darker wood areas and of course the piece is very dense and hard indeed.
The surface would have a waxy and horn-like finish with a very slight greenish-brown tinge. It is so hard and dense that it would be difficult to leave an impression with a fingernail.
It is generally burnished to a polish on the lathe and rarely has an applied finish.

 

Many thanks for your very comprehensive answer. This piece does indeed have attributes that you have described so I am now 100% sure this is Lignum Vitae.

 

Another vote here. I tend to make off with LV when I find it too.

 

Thanks, yep it's lovely wood

 

This was a very informative discussion.