Cocobolo
Dalbergia retusa · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central America (Mexico, Panama, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, and El Salvador)
- Hardness
- 2,960 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; contains high natural oil content making it exceptionally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and interlocked with some straight sections; features dramatic figure and dark inklike streaks with a fine to medium texture
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a vibrant mix of oranges, reds, and deep browns with black streaks. Sapwood is creamy yellow. It darkens significantly over time to a deep reddish-black, losing its bright orange hues with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
2,960 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; contains high natural oil content making it exceptionally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $60 - $100 per board foot; high value due to rarity and import restrictions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 2-5 years since milling; the deep oxidation and surface grime suggest it has been in storage or handled without a finish for several years.
- Sustainability Status
- CITES Appendix II listed; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable. Subject to strict trade regulations and FSC availability is limited.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (especially guitars and woodwinds), fine furniture handles, knife scales, luxury pens, jewelry boxes, and ornamental turning.
Geographic Origin
Central America (Mexico, Panama, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras, and El Salvador)
Workability
Difficult to glue due to high natural oils; may require solvent wiping (acetone) before bonding. Dulls blades quickly due to high density, but turns and sands to a high natural luster.
Finish Recommendations
Best left unfinished or with a light wax/oil finish; polyurethane and lacquer may fail to dry properly due to natural oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive floral or spice-like scent when worked; oils can cause severe allergic skin reactions in some people (sensitizer); sinks in water due to high density.
