The above header image showcases Google image search results for "real cherry wood." Half of these, however, are actually not cherry wood at all. Many are illegal rainforest woods, brought to you by organized crime which has taken root in the global timber industry.
At Vermont Woods Studios, our mission is to make high‑quality solid wood furniture, responsibly made by Vermont craftsmen, using sustainably sourced American hardwoods.
If you’re curious about the look of real cherry wood furniture, here’s what you’ll want to know.
Cherry Wood: Understanding its Natural Color
We speak with customers every day about the color of real cherry wood furniture—and the confusion is understandable. A quick image search for “real cherry wood” reveals a dizzying array of colors—ranging from deep red to pale yellow. The truth? Many of those photos don’t actually show real cherry wood at all.
Take our Brighton Solid-Top Table (above), for example. It’s crafted from genuine, natural cherry, and when newly made, it appears light pink or golden. Over time, exposure to sunlight deepens the color into a rich reddish brown, often resembling the warm hues of mahogany.
This aging process, sometimes called “ripening,” is a hallmark of authentic cherry wood. Our Vermont Shaker Bedroom Furniture Set (below) demonstrates this perfectly— its color transformation is subtle but stunning after just a month or two of sunlight.
The Problem with "Cherry" Imposters
When American furniture companies began offshoring in the 1980s, many switched from using real cherry to cheaper, imported rainforest woods. To maintain their marketing appeal, they stained these substitute woods and branded them with misleading names like "Cherry Mahogany."
One such wood, Makore, is a tropical species from West Africa that’s often illegally logged. Despite being unrelated to true cherry or mahogany, it’s sold under cherry-themed names, contributing to deforestation, illegal timber trade, and the exploitation of endangered species.
How to Spot the Real Thing
We often hear from customers who are surprised to learn that their so-called “cherry” furniture— bought from big-name brands— is actually made of rubberwood, poplar, or engineered hardwood, stained to mimic cherry’s appearance.
In contrast, our furniture is crafted from 100% solid North American black cherry, responsibly harvested and naturally finished. Take the handcrafted rocker in the above photo: its deeper tone reveals how authentic cherry evolves with light exposure. And notice how the grain pattern creates subtle variations even within a single piece— that's real, natural character, not a painted-on stain.
Starting as a delicate pink tone and maturing into deep, elegant reddish-brown, authentic cherry wood reflects time, light, and your personal story. At Vermont Woods Studios, every purchase supports Vermont artisans, encourages sustainability, and yields heirloom pieces that grow more beautiful with age.
If you're seeking furniture that embodies quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship, you’re in the right place. Ready to find your perfect cherry piece?
