East Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia latifolia • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually narrowly interlocked with a medium to fine texture and a high natural luster. It sometimes exhibits a slight wavy pattern common in high-grade furniture or instrument wood.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a golden brown to a deep purple or reddish brown, with darker streaks. The color tends to darken with age, becoming a deep chocolate brown. Sapwood is yellowish-white.
Hardness Rating
2,440 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; rated as very resistant to termite and fungal attacks, though it can be susceptible to marine borers.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, musical instruments (fretboards and guitar backs/sides), high-end cabinetry, turning, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to India, but also grown in Sri Lanka and Indonesia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $60.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a contemporary finished piece, likely 5-15 years old, based on the even oxidation and modern finish application.
Sustainability Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable. Subject to strict trade regulations and export permits.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can dull cutting edges due to its high density. It glues and finishes well, but oily surfaces may require wiping with a solvent before gluing.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, rose-like floral scent when being worked. It is known for excellent acoustic resonance and high oil content.
Finish Recommendations
Natural oils (tung or linseed), lacquer, or shellac. If using water-based finishes, a sealer is recommended to prevent color bleeding from the wood's natural resins.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the deep purplish hues, systematic darker streaks, and pore structure are highly characteristic of the Dalbergia genus, specifically East Indian Rosewood.