Wenge
Millettia laurentii • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a very coarse texture; exhibits a distinct 'partridge wood' figure with alternating dark and light parenchyma bands.
Color Description
Heartwood is medium brown to nearly black with dark brown to black streaks. Sapwood is yellowish-white. Wood tends to darken significantly with age or when a finish is applied, often appearing nearly black.
Hardness Rating
1,630 lbf (Hard to Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable and resistant to termite attack. Highly resistant to rot and decay, though rarely used outdoors due to cost.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, flooring, cabinetry, musical instruments (fretboards and guitar necks), turned objects, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Central Africa (primarily Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $40.00 per board foot depending on width and grain consistency.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the deep oxidation and surface checking, this sample appears to be seasoned stock, likely 10-20 years old since primary processing, given its dark patina.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List; CITES Appendix II listed. Sourcing requires strict documentation and FSC certification is highly recommended.
Workability
Challenging with hand tools due to extreme hardness and density. High risk of splintering; dust is an irritant and can cause allergic reactions. Significant blunting effect on cutters. Glues reasonably well but requires degreasing.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'zebra-stripe' or 'feathered' tangential grain. Extremely heavy and dense. Sawdust is known to be toxic/highly allergenic; splinters can become infected easily.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils or clear lacquers. High-gloss finishes are difficult because of the open pores; a wood filler is required if a level surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic alternating black and chocolate-brown bands paired with the coarse, splinter-prone grain texture are diagnostic for Millettia laurentii.