East Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia latifolia • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Usually interlocked or wavy with a medium texture and large open pores. Occasional grain patterns create a narrow ribbon figure on quarter-sawn surfaces.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to deep purple with dark brown streaks. Sapwood is a distinct pale yellow to cream color. Luster is typically low to medium, and colors darken towards black with age.
Hardness Rating
2,440 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to rot and insect attack, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetles.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (especially guitar fingerboards and backs/sides), fine furniture, cabinetry, veneers, tool handles, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia (Java)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 to $50.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut; based on the milling marks, lack of significant graying or oxidation, and the cleanly defined sapwood line, this sample appears to be within 1-5 years of being milled.
Sustainability Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations.
Workability
General workability is good, though high density and interlocked grain can cause tearout. Contains natural oils that can interfere with gluing and clogging of sandpaper.
Notable Features
Distinctive rose-like scent when being worked. High acoustic resonance makes it a preferred tonewood. Can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for drying oils or lacquer. If using water-based finishes, a sealer is recommended to prevent oil bleed-through and ensure adhesion.
Identification Confidence
High; the striking contrast between the dark purple-brown heartwood and creamy sapwood, combined with the visible open pore structure and ribbon-like grain, is characteristic of Dalbergia latifolia.