Agarwood runs deep, and half of it lies in the "manipulations" done in the water. Knowing a few common techniques can at least block out the crudest fakes.
Oil soaking means soaking ordinary wood in essential oil to make the surface look oily and black. This kind of material smells harsh and retains fragrance briefly; the oil only floats on the surface, and the inside is still white wood when cut open. The oil in natural agarwood seeps out from within, with transitional distribution.
Oil injection uses high pressure to force oil into the wood, creating a false impression of "sinking grade." The density of this material is fake, the scent is harsh, and after long storage the oil returns to the surface and becomes sticky. The density of true sinking grade comes from natural oil content, and both the scent and feel are more natural.
Painted lines use pigment or oil to draw "oil lines" on white wood, imitating resinous grain. True oil lines vary in depth and have breaks along the wood grain; painted lines are often too even, too full, and have dead edges. A side-light look immediately gives them away.
Manipulations fool the eyes, but true fragrance cannot fool the nose. If you can't judge by sight, smell it; if that fails, bring it in for authentication.
When you're unsure, don't force a guess. Wubaiyi Agarwood offers public-benefit authentication (a symbolic ¥9.9 fee to cover basic service). Bring your material and we'll help you judge using experience plus scent—far more economical than buying blindly.
Explain your specific situation clearly, and we'll give corresponding judgments and suggestions—sourcing, personal use, and authentication are all welcome.
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