Cocobolo
Dalbergia retusa · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central America (ranging from Mexico to Panama)
- Hardness
- 2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Irregular with swirling grain and a prominent knot/eye figure
Color & Appearance
Rich reddish-brown base with dramatic dark brown to almost black contrasting streaks and pale yellowish sapwood visible on the edge
Hardness (Janka)
2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 25 to 50 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent harvest with minimal surface oxidation, estimated under 5-10 years
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on CITES Appendix II and protected under IUCN Red List as vulnerable due to overexploitation
Common Uses
Fine furniture, turned objects, knife handles, musical instruments, inlay, and luxury items
Geographic Origin
Central America (ranging from Mexico to Panama)
Workability
Challenging due to high density and natural oils which can dull cutting edges quickly and affect gluing, but turns and finishes exceptionally well
Finish Recommendations
Buffed wax or oil finishes work best; film finishes like polyurethane can fail due to natural oils unless properly degreased with a solvent
Notable Features
High natural oil content giving it a greasy feel, distinct spicy or floral fragrance, heavy and dense enough to sink in water, potential skin irritant
