East Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia latifolia • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Typically straight to narrowly interlocked with a medium-coarse texture and a natural oily feel.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to deep purple with dark brown or black streaks. Luster is medium-dull. It tends to darken or even turn black with age.
Hardness Rating
2,440 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable with excellent natural resistance to rot, termites, and fungal decay.
Common Uses
Acoustic guitar fretboards and bridges, fine furniture, musical instruments, turned objects, and high-end cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Native to India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia (Java).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$40.00 - $60.00 per board foot for high-grade dimensional lumber; significantly higher for specifically cut instrument blanks.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the crispness of the machine-drilled bridge pin holes and lack of heavy oxidation.
Sustainability Status
CITES Appendix II listed; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable. Available as FSC certified from managed plantations.
Workability
Generally works well but can be difficult to glue due to high natural oils. Requires sharp tools as high density leads to blunting. Can cause skin/respiratory irritation.
Notable Features
Distinctive rose-like scent when cut; high oil content and density; exceptional acoustic resonance properties; presence of dark growth rings.
Finish Recommendations
Often left unfinished (as on guitar fretboards/bridges) or treated with lemon oil. For a hard finish, it must be wiped with solvent (acetone) to remove oils prior to gluing or finishing.
Identification Confidence
High. The coloring, dark streaking, and use case as a guitar bridge with specific pore structure are classic indicators of Dalbergia latifolia.