Description

Central American Cocobolo

One of today’s most sought lumbers for its exceptional colour and figure, but also one of the most infamous for its bonding difficulties and potential to produce allergic responses in woodworkers.

Cocobolo is stronger and denser than Brazilian Rosewood, according to reports, and the strength numbers (bending strength and modulus of elasticity) stated at the top of this page reflect this. Fine furniture, musical instruments, turnings, and other one-of-a-kind items are available.

Cocobolo is protected under CITES Appendix II, which places a genus-wide ban on all Dalbergia species, including completed items produced of the wood. When worked, cocobolo has a unique spice-like aroma that some people dislike, yet it has been utilized in at least one women’s perfume.

Cocobolo comes in a rainbow of hues, ranging from yellow to orange to red, and tones of brown with black or purple streaks. Sapwood is usually a light yellow colour. Colours are lighter when newly sanded/cut and deepen with age; check the page on avoiding colour changes in exotic woods for additional details.

Janka Hardness:

2,960 lbf

Average Dried Weight:

69 lbs/ft3 (1,095 kg/m3)

Workability:

Because of the high oil content in this wood, it might create adhesive issues on occasion. When applying a finish, the wood’s colour can bleed into adjacent wood, thus care must be given with the early seal applications to avoid smearing the wood’s colour/oils into adjacent sections. Tearout can occur during planing if the grain is interlaced; the wood’s high density also has a modest blunting impact on cutting edges/tools. Cocobolo has a great turning ability.

Description

Central American Cocobolo