East Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia latifolia • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Usually narrowly interlocked, sometimes straight. Features a medium-coarse texture with large open pores that contribute to a distinct linear figure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to deep purple or dark brown with even darker blackish streaks. Sapwood is yellowish-white. It often features high luster and can oxidize to an even darker chocolate brown over time.
Hardness Rating
2,440 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and decay; heartwood is highly resistant to termite attack.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (especially guitar fingerboards, backs, and sides), high-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, turned objects, and knife handles.
Geographic Origin
India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia (Plantation grown).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$40.00 - $70.00 USD per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Unavailable. The sample shows fresh cross-cut marks but the deep oxidation suggests it is seasoned heartwood, likely at least 1-3 years old post-harvest.
Sustainability Status
Appendix II listed in CITES; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable (due to population reduction in the wild). FSC certified sources exist via plantations.
Workability
Generally easy to work but can be difficult to plane due to interlocked grain (tearout). It contains natural oils that can interfere with gluing and clogging of sandpaper. Moderate blunting effect on cutters.
Notable Features
Distinctive rose-like scent when being worked. High oil content provides a natural polish. Known for exceptional tonal properties in acoustics.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for lacquer or oil finishes. Surface should be wiped with a solvent (acetone) before gluing or finishing to remove surface oils.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. Based on the deep purple-brown hue, dark streaks, and the open-pore end grain structure visible in the cut, it strongly resembles the Dalbergia genus.