Gaboon Ebony
Diospyros crassiflora · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- West Africa
- Hardness
- 3,080 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to decay and termite attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular or interlocked grain with a fine, even texture
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically jet black, sometimes with dark brown or grayish-brown streaks. The sapwood is sharply demarcated, pale yellow or whitish, clearly visible in the sample as the contrasting reddish-brown to orange strip running down the board.
Hardness (Janka)
3,080 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to decay and termite attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 35 to 100+ USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Older seasoned timber, estimated several decades based on the deep oxidation and seasoning checks
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Endangered due to overexploitation and illegal logging
Common Uses
Fine furniture, musical instrument parts (piano keys, guitar fretboards), turnings, inlay, pool cues, and carving
Geographic Origin
West Africa
Workability
Extremely difficult to work due to extreme density; dulls cutting edges very quickly. Glues and finishes well, but can be challenging to turn and plane without tearout or splintering
Finish Recommendations
Takes a high natural polish without finishes due to natural oils; can be finished with oils, wax, or lacquers after careful surface preparation
Notable Features
Extremely dense and heavy, sinks in water; natural oils can sometimes interfere with gluing; dust can cause respiratory and skin irritation
