Cocobolo
Dalbergia retusa · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central America (extending from Mexico to Panama).
- Hardness
- 2,960 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, insect attack, and moisture due to extremely high natural oil content.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked with a fine, medium texture; displays a rich, varied figure with dark streaks and occasional wavy patterns typical of Dalbergia species when turned.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from orange to deep reddish-brown with darker streaks; sapwood is pale yellow. It features high natural luster and significant chatoyance; colors darken and mellow with light exposure over time.
Hardness (Janka)
2,960 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, insect attack, and moisture due to extremely high natural oil content.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $50.00 to $90.00 per board foot (one of the world's most expensive and prized timbers).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern (likely 1-5 years post-manufacturing); the finish appears fresh with no significant signs of oxidation or wear common in vintage items.
- Sustainability Status
- CITES Appendix II listed; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable. Subject to strict trade regulations and limited availability.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, musical instruments (especially woodwinds and guitar backs), turned objects (pens, bowls), knife handles, and decorative inlay.
Geographic Origin
Central America (extending from Mexico to Panama).
Workability
Difficult to glue due to high natural oil content; requires solvent (acetone) wiping before bonding. High density can dull blades quickly, but it turns and sands to a naturally high gloss.
Finish Recommendations
Carnauba wax, CA (cyanoacrylate) glue finish for pens, or simply polished raw. Avoid thick film-forming finishes like polyurethane which may peel due to oils.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, spicy floral scent when worked; oils can be a potent sensitizer/allergen for some people; naturally oily enough to require no finish.
