Wenge
Millettia laurentii • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse texture; distinctive 'partridge wood' pattern created by alternating bands of light-colored parenchyma and dark-colored wood fibers.
Color Description
Heartwood is medium brown, sometimes with a reddish or yellowish hue, with nearly black streaks. When finished, the wood can turn almost entirely black. Sapwood is distinct, being a pale yellow white.
Hardness Rating
1,630 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and termite attack, suitable for areas with heavy wear.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, flooring, cabinetry, musical instruments (especially bass guitars), turnery, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Central Africa (primarily Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Tanzania).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $40.00 USD per board foot depending on thickness and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminable from photo; however, the deep oxidation and surface checking suggest a reclaimed or air-dried slab of significant maturity.
Sustainability Status
Endangered (IUCN Red List); not listed in CITES Appendices, but conservation efforts significant due to habitat loss.
Workability
Challenging; can be difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to its bluntness on cutters. Splinters easily and can be toxic; requires sanding with care as the dust is a known irritant.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark brown to black streaks resembling the feathers of a partridge; faint, slightly bitter scent when being worked; high natural oil content.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (Tung oil or Danish oil) enhance the deep colors; however, large pores may require a grain filler if a smooth, high-gloss finish is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the 'partridge' grain pattern, deep chocolate to black coloring, and characteristic long-vessel pore structure are unique identifiers of Millettia laurentii.