Koa
Acacia koa · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Hawaiian Islands
- Hardness
- 1,170 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable with moderate resistance to decay and termites
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked with striking irregular wavy figure and chatoyancy
Color & Appearance
Rich golden brown to dark reddish brown heartwood with dramatic dark streaks and a distinct contrast from the pale yellow sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
1,170 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable with moderate resistance to decay and termites
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15 to 45 USD per board foot depending on figure grade
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a modern finished sample, roughly 5 to 15 years old based on clean edges and glossy finish
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, but endemic to Hawaii and protected locally; mostly harvested from fallen or dead trees on private lands
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments like ukuleles and guitars, veneer, turning, and interior millwork
Geographic Origin
Hawaiian Islands
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though figured pieces can tear out during planing due to interlocked grain
Finish Recommendations
Takes high gloss finishes, lacquers, and oils exceptionally well to accentuate the natural chatoyancy and depth of grain
Notable Features
Famous for its deep luster, 3D chatoyancy, and golden-brown tones; highly prized for acoustic instruments
