The Formation of Aloeswood
Aloeswood occurs as a result of a complex, natural defense mechanism in a tree. After it has been infected by a fungus, which attacks through wounds on its trunk, the tree begins to produce a resin within its limbs and trunk. Aloeswood is formed by the maturing of this resin, a process that can take anywhere from several decades to hundreds of years.

In the highest quality aloeswood, known as black agar or Kyara, the resin becomes so dense that it causes the wood to sink in water.

The fragrance of aloeswood can vary greatly depending on the country of origin, the density of resin and depending also on the part of the tree from which it is harvested.

The Cultivation of Aloeswood
Because aloeswood is so rare and precious, attempts are now being made to cultivate the wood in plantations in India and other places around the world, by deliberately infecting trees with the fungus that causes the resins to appear. While this is a sustainable way to produce aloeswood, the quality may differ from that of naturally-occuring, wild aloeswood.

Different Grades of Aloeswood
There are many different grades of aloeswood, which are determined based on the density of resin and the type and intensity of the aroma it produces. The lower grades are often used in essential oil, while the higher grades are mainly used for incense. Generally, like fine wine, the ones with the longest maturing time have the greatest aroma. The highest grade of aloeswood is called Kyara, which means "precious" in ancient Japanese, and it is more expensive per ounce than gold.

The First International Agarwood Conference was held in Ho Chi Minh City in Viet Nam from November 10 - 15, 2003.

All photographs used courtesy of Shoyeido, Japan. All Rights Reserved.