How Is Kynam Agarwood Harvested and Processed in Singapore?

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Introduction

Agarwood, also known as oud, is a precious and aromatic resin that forms in the heartwood of the Aquilaria tree when it becomes infected with a particular type of mold. The most sought-after type of agarwood is called kynam agarwood, known for its exceptional quality and rich fragrance. In Singapore, the harvesting and processing of kynam agarwood follow careful and ethical practices to maintain the quality of the final product and protect the environment. This article explores the methods of harvesting and processing kynam agarwood in Singapore, as well as its use in the creation of agarwood beads.

Sustainable Harvesting

Singapore places a strong emphasis on sustainable and ethical practices when it comes to harvesting agarwood, particularly kynam agarwood. To protect the natural population of Aquilaria trees and ensure a steady supply of this precious resin, the following measures are typically taken:

Agarwood Beads in Singapore

Selective Harvesting: Only mature trees that show signs of natural infection are harvested for agarwood production. This selective approach ensures that the trees are not over-harvested and that younger trees can continue to grow and replenish the population.
Reforestation and Plantation: Some plantations are dedicated to growing Aquilaria trees under controlled conditions to supplement wild populations and provide a sustainable source of agarwood.
CITES Compliance: Singapore adheres to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates the international trade of agarwood to protect endangered species.

Processing Techniques

Once the kynam agarwood has been harvested, it undergoes various processing stages to extract its valuable resin and prepare it for different uses. The processing techniques include:

Cleaning: The harvested wood is thoroughly cleaned to remove debris and impurities.
Chopping and Sorting: The wood is chopped into smaller pieces and sorted based on quality. High-quality pieces are reserved for fragrance extraction and other premium uses.
Distillation: The chopped wood is then subjected to steam distillation to extract the fragrant resin, which is used in perfumes and other luxury products.
Drying and Grading: After distillation, the remaining wood is dried and graded according to its quality and fragrance.

Agarwood Beads Production

In Singapore, kynam agarwood is often used to create exquisite agarwood beads, which are highly valued for their fragrance and spiritual significance. The process of producing agarwood beads involves several steps:

Selection of Wood: High-quality agarwood is selected for bead production based on its aroma, color, and density.
Cutting and Shaping: The selected wood is cut into small, manageable pieces and shaped into spherical beads.
Drilling: A small hole is drilled through each bead to allow them to be strung together.
Polishing: The beads are polished to enhance their natural luster and aroma.

Conclusion

Singapore's approach to harvesting and processing kynam agarwood demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices and quality products. By carefully managing the harvest of Aquilaria trees and utilizing efficient processing techniques, Singapore continues to be a key player in the global agarwood market. The production of agarwood beads, in particular, showcases the beauty and fragrance of kynam agarwood, making it a cherished and sought-after commodity for fragrance enthusiasts and collectors alike.