Bubinga (also known as Kevazingo)
Guibourtia spp. (G. tessmannii, G. pellegriniana, G. demeusei) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and wavy grain; this sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern with large, open pores and slight figure around the knots/swirls.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pinkish red to a darker reddish brown with darker purple or black streaks. It has a high natural luster and exhibits slight chatoyance. It tends to darken slightly with age and exposure to UV.
Hardness Rating
1,980 lbf (Very Hard to Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; possesses excellent rot and insect resistance, though it is usually reserved for interior luxury applications.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, veneer, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and drums), turnings, and luxury knife handles.
Geographic Origin
Equatorial Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, and Ivory Coast)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot, depending on figure intensity and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern stock; the surface shows recent milling and sanding without deep oxidation or historical wear patterns.
Sustainability Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II and on the IUCN Red List as Endangered/Vulnerable; trade is strictly regulated.
Workability
Difficult due to high density and interlocked grain which can cause tearout during planing. High silica content can dull blades quickly. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive unpleasant odor when fresh cut, which usually dissipates. Extremely heavy and dense with excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (like Tung or Danish oil) enhance the deep reds, though a clear film finish like lacquer or polyurethane provides excellent protection and shine.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-purple hue combined with the specific coarse pore structure and 'Kevazingo' cathedral grain is characteristic of African Bubinga.