Bubinga
Guibourtia spp. (G. tessmannii, G. pellegriniana, G. demeusei) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a fine to medium texture. Visible medium-sized open pores and subtle ribbon-stripe figure common in quarter-sawn sections.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from pink-red to a darker reddish-brown with darker purple or black streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow. It features a natural high luster and chatoyancy, typically darkening slightly with age to a deep burgundy.
Hardness Rating
2,410 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is reported as being very durable and resistant to termite and powder post beetle attacks.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, veneer, musical instruments (guitars and drums), turned objects, and specialty items like knife handles or fountain pens.
Geographic Origin
Equatorial Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 to $25.00 per board foot, depending on figure and availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample, likely seasoned/kiln-dried within the last 5-10 years based on surface oxidation and sharpness of the cut edges.
Sustainability Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II; IUCN status varies by species from Least Concern to Endangered. FSC certification is available but limited.
Workability
Generally easy to work with although interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. High density can dull cutting edges. Glues and finishes well, though natural oils can occasionally interfere with some finishes.
Notable Features
Distinctive unpleasant scent when wet or freshly cut which disappears upon drying. Noted for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and acoustic resonance.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; polyurethane or lacquer provides excellent protection. Water-based finishes may look washed out; oils or shellac best highlight the deep red tones and chatoyancy.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-purple hue combined with the specific pore structure and the handwritten 'Bubinga' visible on the right edge of the board confirms identity.