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Malaysian Blackwood (Diospyros ebonasea), also called Malaysian Ebony, is a true ebony from Southeast Asia.It's prized for its dense, dark heartwood, which ranges from deep brown to black. Many boards show striking spiderweb-like patterns, so each piece is unique.Like other ebonies it's hard and dense, so use sharp tools and take your time. The reward is a smooth surface that polishes to a fine, lustrous finish and holds crisp detail.Malaysian Blackwood is used for musical instruments, fine furniture, boxes, turnings and other luxury pieces where its color and figure can stand out. If you like its look, take a look at Ziricote and Amara Ebony too.
boxmaking, cabinetry, crafting, fine furniture, lutherie, musical Instruments, specialty items, turnings
Gabon Ebony (Diospyros crassiflora), also called African Ebony, comes from West and Central Africa and is one of the most iconic woods in the world. Its heartwood ranges from pure black to variegated tones with greys, browns and even golden streaks.It's exceptionally dense, strong and naturally oily, and it takes an extraordinary polish with a beautiful luster when sanded. The texture is very fine and even, so it holds crisp detail. The oiliness can make gluing trickier, but the results are worth the care.The trees grow slowly and produce small logs, so long, clear boards are rare and expensive. It's also prone to checking, so pieces should be stored and worked carefully. Quality and availability in the US have declined, and prices have risen, so good stock is worth snapping up.Gabon Ebony is the traditional fingerboard and fitting wood for violins, violas, cellos and basses, and it's used for guitar fretboards, piano keys, carving, turnings and inlay. It's a favorite with turners, carvers and luthiers. See also Indian Ebony, a close match in looks.
musical Instruments, specialty items
carving, handles, inlay, turnings