Description

East Indian Rosewood is a large tree that is found most commonly in Southern India and Ceylon. The tree often grow up to 24m in height. It is also known as Bombay Rosewood, and a plantation grown variety is marketed as 'Sonokeling'.

The base colour of East Indian Rosewood is medium to dark brown with a distinct purple cast. The wood if usually marked with dark purple or even black line. It is heavy, hard, and sable in use. It tends to be difficult to work by hand and has a blunting effect on tools. Typical of most rosewoods, East Indian Rosewood has a fragrant smell when worked, but the dust is reported to be an allergen or sensitizer for some people.

East Indian Rosewood is most often used in high quality furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments - especially guitar backs. It is often regularly used for turnings, decorative veneer, and marquetry.

Also known as:

• Bombay Rosewood
• sonokeling

For further information see:

• The Wood Database
• Woods To Know