African Blackwood
Dalbergia melanoxylon · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Dry regions of tropical Africa, primarily East Africa (Tanzania, Mozambique, Kenya)
- Hardness
- 2,940 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine, even texture and subtle figure
Color & Appearance
Deep dark brown to nearly solid black heartwood, sometimes with purplish or dark reddish hues, sharply demarcated from the pale yellowish-white sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
2,940 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 40.00 to 80.00 USD per board foot (or higher for select turned stock)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be precisely determined visually, but finished items like these typically reflect well-cured, stable heartwood several decades old
- Sustainability Status
- Near Threatened according to the IUCN Red List; some species within Dalbergia are CITES Appendix II regulated; sustainable plantation initiatives are limited
Common Uses
Woodwind musical instruments (clarinets, oboes, bagpipes), fine turnings, knife handles, small decorative items, inlay work
Geographic Origin
Dry regions of tropical Africa, primarily East Africa (Tanzania, Mozambique, Kenya)
Workability
Extremely difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to extreme density; high dulling effect on cutting edges; turns and polishes exceptionally well to a glass-like finish
Finish Recommendations
Usually left unfinished or polished to a high natural sheen using fine abrasives and buffing; oils and waxes can be applied but are rarely necessary due to natural oils
Notable Features
High natural oil content giving it a greasy feel and water resistance; exceptionally dense and heavy; classic material for high-end woodwind instruments
