Bubinga (sometimes called African Rosewood)
Guibourtia spp. (G. tessmannii, G. pellegriniana) • Hardwood/Exotic
Grain Pattern
Interlocked, wavy grain with fine to medium texture. Shows prominent pores and occasional darker reddish-black streaks (often referred to as 'waterfall' figure when curly, though this sample is more straight-to-wavy).
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pinkish red to a darker reddish brown with black or dark purple streaks. It has a high natural luster. Color tends to darken and become more uniform with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
2,410 lbf (Very Hard to Extremely Hard); significantly harder than White Oak.
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; heartwood is reported to be very durable regarding rot resistance and is also resistant to termite and powder post beetle attacks.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, woodturning (bowls, platters), knife handles, musical instruments (especially guitars and drums), and high-end veneer.
Geographic Origin
Equatorial Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, and Ivory Coast).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot, depending on the intensity of the figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly turned; the clean, sharp tool marks and bright reddish hue suggest a recently harvested or freshly processed board. Likely kiln-dried stock less than 2 years old.
Sustainability Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II (as of 2017) and on the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened; trade is regulated and requires specific permits.
Workability
Generally difficult to work due to high density and interlocked grain which can cause tearout during planing or turning. Glues well despite natural oils, but use of sharp carbide tools is recommended to prevent burning.
Notable Features
Distinct unpleasant scent when freshly cut which disappears after drying/finishing. Highly prized for its density and acoustic properties. Dust can be a skin and respiratory irritant.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed) enhance the depth and chatoyance, while a buffed wax or polyurethane provides excellent protection for turnings.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the distinctive 'African Rosewood' reddish-brown hue, the specific medium-sized vessel pore structure visible on the side grain, and its presence on a wood lathe (a favorite of turners) are classic characteristics of Bubinga.