A proof-of-concept study: Determining the geographical origin of Brazilwood, (Paubrasilia echinata) with the use of strontium isotopic fingerprinting.

The illicit exploitation of Brazilwood (Paubrasilia echinata) presents a significant challenge in Brazil, given its substantial value in the global production of bows for musical instruments. To address timber provenance, the use of strontium (Sr) isotope ratios as indicators of bedrock signatures has emerged as a robust tool in forensic investigations. In this study, we critically evaluate the efficacy of this approach using Sr isotope data derived from bulk soils and trees collected at two distinct sites in Brazil.