WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
Indian Rosewood
Dalbergia latifolia
Also known as: East Indian Rosewood, Bombay Blackwood
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 2,440 lbf (10,854 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 850 kg/m³ (53 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.85
- Type
- Tropical hardwood
- Grain
- Straight to irregular, sometimes interlocked
- Texture
- Medium
- Durability
- Very durable, resistant to decay and insect attack
- Region
- Asia
- Sustainability
- Restricted — CITES Appendix II - restricted trade, declining natural populations
Overview
Indian Rosewood is a prized tropical hardwood renowned for its use in acoustic guitar backs and sides. Its rich purplish-brown color and excellent resonance have made it a cornerstone of fine instrument making. The wood is CITES-listed due to overharvesting; sustainable sourcing is essential.
The heartwood ranges from golden brown to dark purplish-brown with darker streaks. It has a medium texture with straight to irregular, sometimes interlocked grain. Dried weight averages 850 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 2,440 lbf. The wood is very dense with excellent acoustic properties.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
High - very hard, dense wood
Gluing
Good with proper surface preparation
Finishing
Excellent - takes oil and polish beautifully
Steam Bending
Moderate - can be brittle
Scent
Distinctive rosewood scent; can cause allergic reactions
Assessment
Strengths
- Beautiful appearance
- Excellent for musical instruments
- Durable
- Resonant
Weaknesses
- CITES restricted
- Can cause allergic reactions
- Expensive
- Interlocked grain can tear
Common Uses
Acoustic guitars · Furniture · Veneer · Turnery · Flooring · Carving