Agarwood Grading System: From Bantou and Diaokou to Kyara

The agarwood grading system classifies agarwood by formation part, shape, and resin quality, ranging from common grades like Bantou and Diaokou to the top-tier Kyara. This article systematically explains the characteristics and identification points of each grade to help you build a complete understanding of agarwood grading.

1. Core Logic of Agarwood Grading

Agarwood grading is not a single standard but a system formed by multiple dimensions including formation part, shape, resin density, and aroma performance. Traditionally, from common Bantou and Diaokou to the top-tier Kyara, there is a clear quality ladder. Understanding this system requires clarifying key concepts: the formation part determines shape and resin distribution, resin density affects sinking ability, and aroma layers determine the final grade. In the Agarwood Encyclopedia, we have detailed the formation mechanism of agarwood; this article focuses on grade classification.

2. From Bantou to Diaokou: Detailed Explanation of Common Grades

Bantou refers to the flake-like agarwood formed on the surface of xylem after injury, usually with shallow resin and a clear but not long-lasting aroma, belonging to the entry level. Diaokou is strip or block agarwood formed by resin depositing downward along the wound after trunk injury, with higher resin content and a richer, more lasting aroma. In addition, special forms like "General's Hat" caused by fungal infection have a grade between Bantou and Diaokou. These grades have more detailed morphological identification methods in the Identification Pillar Page for reference.

3. Kyara: The Pinnacle of the Grading System

Kyara is the top-grade agarwood with a special formation mechanism, extremely high resin content, soft texture, and a varied, penetrating aroma. Below Kyara, there are grades like "Daojia", "Shuichen", and "Tuchen", arranged by resin density and aroma performance. Kyara identification requires comprehensive judgment from texture, aroma, and taste; see the Kyara Pillar Page for details. Notably, Kyara is not a single tree species but a product of specific formation conditions, and its grading is further discussed in Chinese Fragrance Studies · Agarwood Identification.

4. Practical Application of the Grading System

Mastering the grading system helps make accurate judgments in purchasing, collecting, and appreciation. Common grades are suitable for daily incense, while top grades like Kyara are mostly for collection or high-end appreciation. Regardless of grade, those with pure aroma, rich resin, and complete shape are superior. It is recommended to combine physical observation and aroma evaluation to gradually build your own grading framework.

(This is industry observation and popular-science summary, not investment advice. Buy agarwood through legal channels with traceable, testable sources.)