Indian Rosewood (Sheesham)
Dalbergia sissoo • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually interlocked or irregular with a medium to coarse texture. Flat-sawn boards show prominent 'cathedral' patterns and heavy figure with occasional small knots and streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to deep reddish-brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale whitish-yellow. It exhibits moderate luster and darkens significantly with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,660 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to termites and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to powder-post beetles.
Common Uses
Furniture (especially mass-produced dining tables like the one shown), flooring, cabinetry, musical instruments (percussion), and wood turning.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Indian Subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Nepal) and Southern Iran.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $20.00 per board foot for raw lumber, though often sold as finished consumer goods at lower effective rates.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a contemporary piece of furniture (likely manufactured in the last 10-20 years) based on the surface wear and joinery style.
Sustainability Status
Appendix II of CITES (all Dalbergia species). Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but trade is strictly regulated.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic scent when worked; known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or clear lacquers or polyurethanes work well to highlight the variegated colors. Shellac is also an excellent sealer.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic high-contrast color streaks, swirling grain patterns, and typical use in large-plank dining furniture are hallmarks of mass-imported Sheesham wood.