- Species: Comes from several Diospyros Species.
- Origin: Primarily from tropical regions in Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
- Durability: Extremely hard, dense, and durable; highly resistant to wear and abrasion.
- Highlights: Famous for its deep black to very dark brown color, fine and smooth texture, and natural luster; considered one of the most luxurious and premium hardwoods.
- Form: Blanks, lumber, veneer.
- Grade: Jet black grade.
- Moisture: Kiln-dried (8 – 12%).
- Dimensions Available: Sawn Lumber / Boards: Thickness: 2.5 cm, 3.8 cm, 5 cm, 6.3 cm / Width: 8 cm – 25 cm (often narrower than other hardwoods due to tree size) / Length: 120 cm – 300 cm (larger sizes are rare). 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 / Fingerboard/Instrument Blanks: 0.6×6×55 cm / Pen Blanks: 2×2×15 cm. Prefabricated Flooring Panels (Engineered/Parquet): Thickness: 1.4 cm – 2 cm / Width: 9 cm – 15 cm / Length: 60 cm – 210 cm.
- Janka Hardness: ~3,220 lbf.
- Grain: Fine, straight.
- Color: Deep black to dark brown.
- Water Resistance: Naturally resistant to moisture and decay due to its high density and natural oils.
- Certification: CITES, FSC (rare).
- Outdoor Suitability: Not ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure; can be used in small exterior details if properly sealed, but primarily preferred indoors due to its high value.
- Indoor Suitability: Excellent for interior applications where strength, aesthetics, and fine finishing are required.
- Estimated Prices: Per Cubic Meter (m3) = ~US $800 to $17,000+ / Price per Piece = ~Varies, from tens to hundreds (Depending on Size and Grade)
- Use Cases: High-end Furniture, Musical Instruments (e.g., Piano Keys, Guitar Fingerboards), Decorative Veneers, Carvings, Luxury Inlays, Turned Objects, and Artisan Crafts.
