Most likely Cocobolo; alternatives include Kingwood or well-finished rosewood.
Dalbergia retusa (likely) · Hardwood; exotic/tropical
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; exotic/tropical
- Origin
- Pacific Central America, especially Mexico, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama.
- Hardness
- Approximately 2,960 lbf Janka — Extremely Hard.
- Durability
- Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and insects, though this small finished item cannot confirm grade.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to mildly irregular, with fine texture and subtle dark streaking; turned cylindrical surfaces obscure the original cut orientation.
Color & Appearance
Rich orange-red to reddish brown with near-black/purple streaks and high natural luster; typically darkens slightly with light and oxidation.
Hardness (Janka)
Approximately 2,960 lbf Janka — Extremely Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and insects, though this small finished item cannot confirm grade.
Value & Age
About $25–$60 per board foot for sound cocobolo, with premium figured stock higher; this finished pen’s value depends mainly on craftsmanship.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The wood’s age cannot be determined from this photograph; the pen appears recently manufactured, with no reliable patina evidence.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, knife and pen handles, turnings, musical instruments, luxury veneer, and decorative objects.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Central America, especially Mexico, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama.
Workability
Turns and finishes exceptionally well but is very hard and silica-rich, which dulls tools; predrilling is advisable, and oily surfaces should be cleaned before gluing.
Finish Recommendations
Often needs only polishing; use thin cyanoacrylate, lacquer, or wipe-on varnish, after solvent-wiping and testing for adhesion.
Notable Features
Dense, heavy, naturally oily, acoustically resonant, and capable of an exceptionally polished surface; dark streaking is characteristic of rosewood-type material.
