Bubinga (sometimes referred to as African Rosewood)
Guibourtia spp. (G. tessmannii, G. pellegriniana, G. demeusei) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with medium to fine texture; displays subtle figuring and some visible open pores (vessels) typical of African hardwoods.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pinkish red to a darker reddish brown with darker purple or black streaks. Sapwood is a pale straw color. Color tends to deepen and become richer with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
2,410 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to termite attack and rot; suitable for items requiring significant longevity.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, veneers, knife handles, musical instruments (especially guitar backs/sides and drums), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Equatorial West Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Congo).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $30.00 per board foot depending on figure and availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/Modern stock. The clean cuts, lack of oxidation patina, and uniform surface suggest these are recently milled blanks for small craft projects.
Sustainability Status
All three Guibourtia species are listed on CITES Appendix II; listed as Near Threatened/Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Workability
Generally easy to work despite its high density, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues well, though natural oils can occasionally interfere with some finishes.
Notable Features
Distinctive unpleasant scent when freshly cut which disappears when dry. Known for excellent strength-to-weight ratio and resonant acoustic properties.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Danish oil or polyurethane are recommended to highlight the deep reds; shellac works well as a sealer for oily sections.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the deep reddish-purple hue, coarse vessel streaks, and extremely dense end-grain appearance is characteristic of Bubinga craft blanks.