Sheesham (Indian Rosewood)
Dalbergia sissoo • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and irregular grain with a coarse texture. Visible cathedral patterns and swirling figures around knots and limb inclusions, creating a variegated aesthetic typical of broad slabs.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to deep reddish-purple with darker streaks. Sapwood is a distinct pale yellowish-white. The piece shows high natural luster; color typically deepens and mellows with UV exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
1,660 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Excellent natural resistance to termites and decay, though sapwood is more susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture (tables, chairs, cabinets), flooring, veneer, wood carvings, boat building, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Indian Subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Nepal) and Southern Iran.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on figure and width of slabs.
Wood Age Estimate
The lumber appears to be 5-15 years old based on modern furniture construction styles, though the tree itself was likely a mature specimen harvested within the last decade.
Sustainability Status
Appendix II of CITES (all Dalbergia species) requiring specific export permits; categorized as 'Least Concern' on the IUCN Red List due to intensive cultivation.
Workability
Generally provides good results but interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing. It glue-ups well and turns beautifully, though high density can dull tool edges quickly.
Notable Features
Distinctive rose-like scent when freshly cut. High oil content provides a natural polish. Known for high dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Natural oil or wax finishes highlight the grain best; lacquer or polyurethane can be used for high-use surfaces like dining tables, though wiping with a solvent is recommended before finishing to remove surface oils.
Identification Confidence
High. The high-contrast color banding, specific reddish-brown hue with dark streaks, and the characteristic knot patterns are textbook indicators of harvested Sheesham used in modern mass-market furniture.