- Species: Belongs mainly to the Dalbergia Genus.
- Origin: Brazil (Dalbergia Nigra), India (Dalbergia Latifolia), and Madagascar.
- Durability: Extremely hard, dense, and durable; resistant to wear and long-lasting.
- Highlights: Renowned for its rich reddish-brown to purplish tones, striking dark streaks, smooth texture, and natural oils that enhance luster and protect against pests.
- Form: Lumber, veneer, turning blanks.
- Grade: Select, Musical-grade.
- Moisture: Kiln-dried (8 – 12%).
- Dimensions Available: Sawn Lumber / Boards (Rough or Planed): Thickness: 2.5 cm, 3.8 cm, 5 cm, 6.3 cm, 7.5 cm / Width: 10 cm – 30 cm (usually random within this range) / Length: 180 cm – 360 cm (occasionally up to 400 cm). Veneer Sheets: Thickness: 0.05 cm – 0.2 cm / Width: 12 cm – 25 cm / Length: 240 cm – 300 cm. Turning Blanks / Blocks: Square Blocks: 5×5×30 cm, 7.5×7.5×30 cm, 10×10×30 cm / Pen Blanks: 2×2×15 cm. Pre-finished Flooring Panels: Thickness: 1.4 cm – 2 cm / Width: 9 cm – 15 cm / Length: 60 cm – 210 cm.
- Janka Hardness: ~2,440 lbf.
- Grain: Fine, often interlocked.
- Color: Reddish-brown to purplish-black.
- Water Resistance: Naturally oily, giving it good resistance to moisture and insects, but still recommended to be sealed for maximum protection.
- Certification: CITES, FSC (limited).
- Outdoor Suitability: Not ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure; best for interior or covered applications due to its value and susceptibility to weathering.
- Indoor Suitability: Excellent, commonly used in luxury indoor applications because of its beauty, hardness, and acoustic properties.
- Estimated Prices: Per Cubic Meter (m3) = ~US $300 to $650+ / Price per Piece = ~US $12 – $30+ (Depending on Size and Grade).
- Use Cases: Fine Furniture, High-end Cabinetry, Veneers, Musical Instruments (Guitars, Pianos), Decorative Inlays, and Specialty Woodcraft.
