WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
Gaboon Ebony
Diospyros crassiflora
Also known as: African Ebony, Gabon Ebony, Black Ebony
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 3,080 lbf (13,701 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 995 kg/m³ (62 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.99
- Type
- Hardwood
- Grain
- Usually straight, sometimes irregular
- Texture
- Fine and even
- Durability
- Very durable; highly resistant to decay and insects
- Region
- Africa
- Sustainability
- Endangered — Endangered - CITES Appendix II; overharvesting has severely depleted populations
Overview
Gaboon Ebony is one of the most prized and dense woods in the world, known for its jet-black heartwood and exceptional polish. Used for piano keys, violin fittings, and fine turnery, it is now CITES-listed due to overharvesting.
Heartwood is black to very dark brown, sometimes with gray streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow to gray. Density averages 995 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 3,080 lbf. Fine, even texture with usually straight grain. Sinks in water.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Very high - extremely hard wood dulls tools quickly
Gluing
Good with proper preparation
Finishing
Excellent - takes mirror polish
Steam Bending
Poor - very stiff
Scent
Mild when worked
Assessment
Strengths
- Extremely hard
- Takes fine polish
- Very durable
- Prestigious appearance
Weaknesses
- Endangered
- CITES restricted
- Blunts tools quickly
- Can crack when drying
Common Uses
Piano keys · Violin fittings · Turnery · Inlays · Carving · Decorative objects