Cocobolo
Dalbergia retusa • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked with a fine, even texture. Notable 'landscape' or 'spider webbing' figure with dramatic swirls around small knots.
Color Description
Orange-red heartwood with black or dark purple streaks. It has a high natural luster. With age, colors darken to a deep brownish-red or blackish-purple.
Hardness Rating
2,960 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot and insect attack due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, musical instruments (guitars, woodwinds), knife handles, turned objects, and specialty pool cues.
Geographic Origin
Central America (extending from Mexico to Panama).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$50.00 - $90.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to medium-aged. The vibrant orange hues suggest it has not yet fully oxidized to its final dark state.
Sustainability Status
CITES Appendix II listed; IUCN Vulnerable. Export of logs, sawn wood, and veneer is strictly regulated.
Workability
Difficult due to extremely high density and natural oils which can interfere with gluing and clog sandpaper. It turns excellently.
Notable Features
Distinct spice-like scent when worked; natural oils make it waterproof; dust is a known sensitizer and can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues.
Finish Recommendations
Sanding to high grits and buffing without finish is common. If finishing, use wax or shellac; oil-based finishes may never dry due to natural wood oils.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinct 'swirly' dark figure against a reddish-orange background and fine texture are hallmarks of Dalbergia retusa.