Bubinga
Guibourtia spp. (G. demeusei, G. pellegriniana, G. tessmannii) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with fine to medium texture. Common figures include pommele, flame, and waterfall, though this sample shows a relatively straight face with small tight knots.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from pinkish red to a dark reddish brown with darker purple/black streaks. Sapwood is a distinct pale yellow to cream color, clearly demarcated as seen in this sample.
Hardness Rating
2,410 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable. Heartwood is very resistant to rot and termites, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetles.
Common Uses
Luxury furniture, high-end cabinetry, musical instruments (especially drums and guitars), knife scales, turnery, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Equatorial Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $60.00 per board foot depending on figure and availability.
Wood Age Estimate
The board appears recently milled or planed, approximately 1-5 years post-processing, with minimal oxidation on the heartwood surface.
Sustainability Status
All species of Bubinga are listed on CITES Appendix II; also listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to over-exploitation.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though interlocked grain can cause tearout. High oil content can make gluing difficult; contains some silica which can dull cutting edges.
Notable Features
Often nicknamed 'African Rosewood' despite not being a true Dalbergia. It has an unpleasant odor when freshly cut, which disappears upon drying. Known for exceptional strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Oil-based finishes enhance the deep red hues, but a sealer is recommended first due to natural oils potentially slowing drying times.
Identification Confidence
High. The sharp contrast between the deep reddish-purple heartwood and the distinct cream sapwood, combined with the specific pore structure and density, is characteristic of Guibourtia.