East Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia latifolia • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium texture; typically quarter-sawn in this application to show uniform vertical striping.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to deep purplish brown with darker blackish streaks; sapwood is pale yellow. It darkens over time, becoming more uniform in color with age.
Hardness Rating
2,440 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and insect attack, including termites.
Common Uses
High-end acoustic guitar backs and sides, fingerboards, fine furniture, veneers, and wood turning.
Geographic Origin
Native to India, but also grown in Sri Lanka and Indonesia (Sonokeling).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $45.00 per board foot for premium instrument grade stock.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the high-gloss lacquer finish and uniform color, this instrument likely dates from the late 20th to early 21st century.
Sustainability Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable. Sustainable sourcing requires specific documentation.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout. Glues well but natural oils may require wiping with solvent before finishing.
Notable Features
Features a distinct rose-like scent when freshly cut. Highly valued for its acoustic resonance and low damping factors.
Finish Recommendations
Requires grain filler for a smooth mirror-like finish; responds exceptionally well to nitrocellulose lacquer, shellac, and polyurethane.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The dark purplish hues and uniform linear grain are classic indicators of Indian Rosewood. It lacks the 'spider-web' ink lines typically found in Brazilian Rosewood (Dalbergia nigra).
Notes
Possible Brazilian rosewood/ or Indian rosewood