Gaboon Ebony
Diospyros dallasiana (or Diospyros crassiflora) · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Equatorial West Africa (Gabon, Cameroon, Congo, Nigeria).
- Hardness
- 3,080 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to termite attack and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetles.
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Grain Pattern
Typically straight, but can sometimes be interlocked; fine, uniform texture with a naturally high luster.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is usually jet-black with little to no visible grain; sapwood is a pale yellow to light brown, as seen in the sanded patch. It darkens very little with age as it is already highly pigmented.
Hardness (Janka)
3,080 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to termite attack and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetles.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $100.00 - $150.00 per board foot (Extremely expensive due to scarcity and export restrictions).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern harvest (less than 20 years). The surface shows characteristic machining marks and a uniform black stain or natural oxidation typical of surfaced exotic lumber.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List: Endangered; CITES Appendix II (specifically Diospyros species from Madagascar, though West African species are also heavily regulated). FSC certification is rare.
Common Uses
Musical instrument parts (piano keys, fingerboards), carving, pool cues, knife handles, and fine inlay work.
Geographic Origin
Equatorial West Africa (Gabon, Cameroon, Congo, Nigeria).
Workability
Difficult to work with hand tools due to extreme density and hardness. It has a pronounced blunting effect on cutters. Glues well if surface oils are wiped with solvent; polishes to a very high natural shine.
Finish Recommendations
Usually left natural or finished with wax or light oil to showcase the deep black luster. It does not require heavy film finishes like polyurethane due to its density.
Notable Features
Extremely heavy (sinks in water); fine dust can be a potent skin and respiratory irritant; nearly metallic ring when struck.
