East Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia latifolia • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually narrowly interlocked with a medium to coarse texture; visible deep pores and occasional dark streaks forming a subtle variegated pattern.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to deep purple or dark reddish-brown with darker blackish streaks; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It tends to darken or become muted with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
2,440 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; characterized by high resistance to termite and fungal attack; highly resistant to decay and rot.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (especially guitar fretboards and backs/sides), high-end furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, veneer, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Native to India and Indonesia (where it is often plantation-grown and known as Sonokeling).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 to $50.00 per board foot depending on figure, size, and sourcing certification.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be an older cut with significant oxidation and surface wear, likely manufactured or harvested 20 to 50 years ago.
Sustainability Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II; classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List due to population decline from exploitation and habitat loss.
Workability
Generally difficult to work with hand tools due to high density and interlocked grain; can cause blunting of cutting edges. Glues can be tricky due to natural oils, and sanding produces a distinct floral scent.
Notable Features
Features a distinct rose-like scent when freshly cut; contains natural oils that improve decay resistance but can interfere with finishing; known for excellent resonance in musical applications.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for drying oils or shellac; polyurethane and other film finishes may fail if surface oils are not wiped with a solvent (like acetone or denatured alcohol) first.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identifying features include the deep purplish-brown hue, characteristic dark streaks, and the visible open-pore structure consistent with the Dalbergia genus.