Characteristics: This exotic and imported hardwood displays a range of colors including rich red, with orange and yellow streaks and zones. It is very hard, dense and heavy and has straight grain, which is sometimes interlocked and can be irregular and variable. It usually has a fine, uniform texture. Cocobolo is a visually beautiful wood.

Common Uses: Cutlery handles - fine turnery - furniture - cabinet making - chess pieces - highly decorative veneer - wooden jewelry and inlay work.

Working Properties: Cocobolo works reasonably well with machine and hand tools, but cutting edges must be kept sharp. The natural oils in the wood make it difficult to glue, but it can be nailed and screwed satisfactorily. It takes stain and can be brought to an excellent finish.

Common Name: Cocobolo

Tree is Native To: Pacific areas of Central America.

Botanical Classification: Dalbergia Retusa

Family: Leguminosae

Average Dried Weight: 68 lb/ft.

Average Specific Gravity: 1.10