Brazilian Cherry (Jatoba)
Hymenaea courbaril · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central America, southern Mexico, northern South America, and the West Indies.
- Hardness
- 2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked to straight grain with a medium texture and natural medium luster.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a rich reddish-brown or orange-brown, often with dark contrasting streaks. Sapwood is a lighter grayish-white. Darkens significantly to a deeper reddish-brown upon exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
2,350 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 14.00 USD per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 30 to 70 years old based on wear patterns, surface oxidation, and vintage finish patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, generally considered of least concern by the IUCN, but responsible sourcing through certified suppliers is recommended.
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy-duty furniture, cabinetry, tool handles, boat building, and turnings.
Geographic Origin
Central America, southern Mexico, northern South America, and the West Indies.
Workability
Difficult to work with both hand and machine tools due to extreme density and hardness. It has a high blunting effect on cutters, though it glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though oil-based polyurethanes or varnishes are preferred to highlight the rich chatoyance and deep color.
Notable Features
Extremely dense and heavy, high shock resistance, contains natural mineral deposits, and can release irritating dust during machining.
Notes
Mjb dark 2
