Gaboon Ebony

Gaboon Ebony is one of the most sought-after exotic hardwoods, prized for its jet-black heartwood with occasional dark brown streaks, exceptionally fine texture, and dense, heavy structure. Native to tropical Africa, particularly Gabon, Cameroon, and surrounding regions, Gaboon Ebony is celebrated for its extreme hardness, natural polish, and long-lasting durability, making it ideal for high-end artisan woodworking and decorative projects.

Its straight to slightly interlocked grain allows Gaboon Ebony to machine, turn, and sand with precision, producing a flawless polished surface that highlights its deep black beauty. Perfect for pen blanks, knife handles, turned objects, inlays, musical instruments, and luxury decorative accents, Gaboon Ebony combines dramatic aesthetics with superior functional performance.

Botanical Information

Scientific Name: Diospyros crassiflora

Family: Ebenaceae

Origin: Central and West Africa (Gabon, Cameroon, Nigeria)

Common & Trade Names

Gaboon Ebony, African Ebony, West African Ebony, Diospyros

Key Characteristics

Heartwood: deep black, sometimes with subtle dark brown streaks

Sapwood: pale, narrow, clearly defined

Grain: straight to slightly interlocked

Texture: very fine, extremely dense

Extremely hard, heavy, and durable

Naturally smooth, takes a high polish

Workability

Very dense and hard; requires sharp, robust tools

Machines, sands, and turns carefully

Accepts oils and finishes beautifully

Glues and polishes reliably

Ideal for small precision or high-end decorative projects

Health & Safety Note

Gaboon Ebony wood dust may cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation. Use proper dust extraction, respirator, and eye protection when machining or sanding this extremely dense hardwood.

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