Lignum Vitae
Guaiacum officinale or Guaiacum sanctum · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central America and the Caribbean.
- Hardness
- 4,500 lbf (Extremely Hard) - One of the densest and hardest woods on Earth.
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptionally resistant to decay, water, and insect attack due to high natural oil (resin) content.
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Grain Pattern
Very closely interlocked grain, appearing slightly wavy or irregular on the small curved surface of the ring. Texture is extremely fine and uniform.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood behaves distinctively, starting as olive-green to yellowish brown and darkening to a deep greenish-black with age and light exposure. High natural luster and waxy appearance.
Hardness (Janka)
4,500 lbf (Extremely Hard) - One of the densest and hardest woods on Earth.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptionally resistant to decay, water, and insect attack due to high natural oil (resin) content.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $90.00 to $120.00 per board foot; highly expensive and often sold by weight rather than volume.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern work piece, likely less than 5 years old. The greenish oxidation suggests the wood has stabilized after cutting.
- Sustainability Status
- CITES Appendix II listed and on the IUCN Red List as Endangered due to over-harvesting. Trade is strictly regulated.
Common Uses
Bearings, bushings, pulley wheels, tool handles, mallet heads, turned objects, and high-end jewelry (rings).
Geographic Origin
Central America and the Caribbean.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness. Dulls cutters rapidly. Glue bonding is difficult because of high natural oil content. Natural oils make it easy to buff to a high shine.
Finish Recommendations
Natural buffing is best. The high oil content makes most film finishes (like polyurethane) prone to peeling. Wax or a light oil finish is sufficient.
Notable Features
Self-lubricating due to high guaiac gum (resin) content; it sinks in water (specific gravity > 1.0); faint perfume-like scent when worked.
