Here’s a detailed overview of the Chinese ceremonial and high-art agarwood grading system, which is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), ceremonial burning, and high-end artistic or collectible markets:
1. Purpose of the Grading System
- Classifies agarwood based on aroma, resin content, color, and structure.
- Guides price, usage, and collection value in ceremonial, medicinal, and high-art contexts.
- Recognizes fine distinctions between resin-rich heartwood for incense, carving, or oil extraction.
2. Key Chinese Grading Criteria
| Criterion | Description |
|---|---|
| Resin Content | Degree of resin saturation; dark streaks indicate high-quality resin |
| Density / Weight | Heavier, dense wood = more resin, higher grade |
| Color & Appearance | Natural dark brown to black heartwood; lighter or uneven color = lower grade |
| Aroma / Scent | Sweet-balsamic, lasting fragrance when burned or rubbed; chemical-free |
| Wood Structure | Tight grain, absence of knots, cracks, or insect damage |
| Origin / Provenance | Preferred species (Aquilaria sinensis, A. malaccensis); wild vs cultivated |
3. Chinese Grading Levels (Typical)
A. “Chen Xiang” / Top Grade (沉香 / Premium)
- Resin: Extremely high, dark heartwood with streaks.
- Aroma: Rich, sweet-balsamic, long-lasting.
- Form: Dense, heavy; minimal cracks or sapwood.
- Use: High-level ceremonial incense, TCM, or collector pieces.
- Market: Highest price tier; rare wild agarwood often classified here.
B. “Zhong Xiang” / Medium Grade (中香 / Medium)
- Resin: Moderate resin streaks; some lighter wood tolerated.
- Aroma: Pleasant but less intense and less lasting.
- Use: General ceremonial incense, moderate-quality carvings.
C. “Qian Xiang” / Low Grade (浅香 / Low)
- Resin: Sparse streaks; predominantly sapwood.
- Aroma: Weak, less enduring fragrance.
- Use: Everyday incense, blended powders, or filler material.
4. Special High-Art Classification (Carving / Collectible)
- Fine vs. Coarse Grain: Fine-grained resinous wood commands higher value for carving.
- Heartwood Purity: Logs with pure resin-rich core preferred.
- Natural Patterns: Unique streaks, knots, and shapes appreciated for artistic value.
- Aroma Preservation: Slow-burning incense or oil extraction potential is a key factor.
Example Terms in Art / Collection Markets:
- “Gui Xiang” (贵香) – Rare, highly prized collector-grade agarwood
- “Ban Xiang” (斑香) – Wood with patterned streaks, valued for aesthetic appearance
- “Tie Xiang” (铁香) – Dense, dark, hard resinous wood; premium carving material
5. Grading Workflow (Chinese Tradition)
- Visual Inspection: Check color, streak density, and wood structure.
- Touch / Density Check: Assess weight and hardness.
- Aroma Test: Rub, warm, or burn small piece to evaluate scent profile.
- Sectioning: Small cuts or chips may be sampled to confirm internal resin quality.
- Classification & Documentation: Assign grade, label provenance, and intended use.
6. Key Principles
- Resin content and aroma are the most critical factors.
- Color and density support the visual and tactile evaluation.
- Natural patterns and purity influence value in artistic and ceremonial markets.
- Traceability / species origin enhances credibility and price.
Summary Table: Chinese Grading
| Grade Level | Resin Content | Aroma | Use / Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chen Xiang / Premium | Extremely high | Rich, sweet, lasting | Ceremonial, TCM, collectors |
| Zhong Xiang / Medium | Moderate | Pleasant, moderate | Ceremonial, carvings |
| Qian Xiang / Low | Low | Weak, short-lived | Everyday incense, blended powders |
| High-Art / Carving | High, dense core | Rich, artistic appeal | Luxury carvings, collectible wood |
This grading system is widely recognized in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and by collectors in Southeast Asia, and often serves as a reference for Gulf and Japanese high-end agarwood markets.
If you want, I can create a visual diagram showing Chinese agarwood grades, resin zones, and recommended uses, which is perfect for training, buyer education, or SOP manuals.
Do you want me to make that diagram?