{"product_id":"camatillo-pen-blank-xxl-13","title":"Camatillo Pen Blank XXL","description":"\u003cp\u003e.80 x 1.0 x 12\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo Wood (Dalbergia congestiflora) is a beautiful and increasingly sought-after Mexican rosewood known for its rich purple coloration, dramatic dark streaking, exceptional density, and fine texture. Often marketed as Mexican Kingwood, Camatillo is prized by woodturners, pen makers, knife makers, musical instrument builders, and fine craftsmen seeking a premium exotic hardwood with extraordinary natural color.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFreshly worked Camatillo may display vivid violet, plum, reddish-purple, and deep burgundy tones, often accented by nearly black grain lines. Over time, exposure to light and oxidation can deepen these colors into darker purple-brown and chocolate-brown shades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts dense structure and fine texture allow carefully worked pieces to develop a smooth, lustrous surface, making Camatillo especially appealing for custom pens, knife handles, bottle stoppers, decorative turnings, jewelry, and fine woodworking accents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor craftsmen who appreciate bold natural color and the character of true rosewoods, Camatillo offers an exceptional material for distinctive, high-quality projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Information\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Name: Dalbergia congestiflora Pittier\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFamily: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGenus: Dalbergia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecies: Dalbergia congestiflora\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Type: Tropical hardwood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative Origin: Mexico and parts of Central America\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Group: True rosewood (Dalbergia)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon \u0026amp; Trade Names\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo, Camatillo Wood, Mexican Kingwood, Mexican Kingwood Rosewood, Mexican Rosewood, Purple Rosewood, and Dalbergia congestiflora.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImportant: Mexican Kingwood is also used for other Dalbergia species, particularly Dalbergia granadillo. This listing specifically identifies Camatillo as Dalbergia congestiflora.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Distribution\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo is native to Mexico and parts of Central America, where it occurs in tropical and seasonally dry forest environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe species is associated with western and southern Mexico and is valued for its richly colored, dense heartwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo is generally less common in the commercial hardwood market than many familiar rosewoods, and available material is often sold in smaller sizes suitable for specialty woodworking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts striking coloration and fine texture make it particularly desirable for woodturning blanks, knife scales, decorative inlays, and other projects that showcase the wood's natural beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor \u0026amp; Appearance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo is best known for its dramatic purple coloration and dark grain contrast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeartwood may display:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eViolet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlum purple\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReddish purple\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBurgundy\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeep reddish brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurple brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDark chocolate brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNearly black streaks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sapwood is generally much lighter, ranging from pale cream to yellowish tan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFreshly cut or sanded Camatillo may show especially vivid purple tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith exposure to light, air, and time, these colors may gradually darken or mellow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA clear finish can enhance the wood's natural depth and emphasize the contrast between its purple heartwood and dark streaks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain \u0026amp; Texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo generally features a fine, even texture and grain that may be straight, irregular, or interlocked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon characteristics include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStraight to irregular grain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOccasional interlocked grain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDark natural streaking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDense wood structure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAttractive natural luster\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent polishing potential\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts fine texture can produce a smooth surface when carefully machined and finished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterlocked grain may require sharp tools and lighter cuts to minimize tear-out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Characteristics\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo is a very dense and hard tropical hardwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRepresentative characteristics commonly reported for Dalbergia congestiflora include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAverage Dried Weight: Approximately 75 lbs\/ft³ (1,200 kg\/m³)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecific Gravity: Approximately 0.96 basic \/ 1.20 at 12% moisture content\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJanka Hardness: Approximately 3,340 lbf (14,860 N)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain: Straight to irregular or interlocked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTexture: Fine and even\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural Luster: Moderate to high\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese figures are representative species values rather than measurements of individual blanks. Density and hardness can vary with growing conditions, moisture content, and grain structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStability \u0026amp; Durability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo is a dense hardwood that can offer excellent wear resistance in finished projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, its high density also means that careful drying and acclimation are important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike many dense tropical hardwoods, Camatillo may develop checking or cracking if subjected to rapid changes in moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor precision projects such as pens, knife handles, and game calls, properly seasoned material is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStore unfinished blanks in a stable environment and avoid sudden temperature or humidity changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorkability \u0026amp; Woodturning\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo is highly valued for specialty woodturning but requires sharp tools and controlled machining techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts hardness and density can dull cutting edges, while irregular or interlocked grain may cause tear-out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorking considerations include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse sharp turning tools and cutters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake light, controlled cuts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDrill carefully and clear chips frequently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid excessive heat during drilling and sanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInspect blanks for checks before machining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow material to acclimate before precision turning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo is particularly appealing for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePremium custom pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePen turning blanks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife scales\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBottle stoppers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGame calls\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative turnings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJewelry\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall boxes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustom handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical instrument accents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine woodworking inlays\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts dramatic purple coloration makes it especially desirable for projects where the natural wood itself is the focal point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinishing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo can develop a beautiful, highly polished surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuitable finishing options include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCyanoacrylate (CA) finishes for pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShellac\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLacquer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePolyurethane\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardwax oils\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSelected oil finishes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWax and buffing compounds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike other true rosewoods, Camatillo may contain natural oils and extractives that interfere with some adhesives or finishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTesting the chosen finish on a small area is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA clear finish can enhance the wood's rich purple and reddish-brown tones, although no finish can completely prevent natural color changes over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal Uses\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo wood blanks are excellent for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePremium pen blanks and custom pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnife handles and knife scales\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBottle stoppers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuck calls and game calls\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative woodturning\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJewelry and accessories\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall boxes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustom handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical instrument components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInlays and decorative trim\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine carving\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecialty woodworking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArtistic and collectible projects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHealth \u0026amp; Safety\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo belongs to the Dalbergia genus, which includes several woods known to cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotential concerns include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkin Irritation: Rosewood dust may cause itching, redness, or contact dermatitis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRespiratory Irritation: Fine airborne dust may irritate the nose, throat, and lungs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEye Irritation: Dust particles may cause discomfort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSensitization: Repeated exposure may increase sensitivity in susceptible individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen cutting, sanding, drilling, or turning Camatillo:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse effective dust extraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWear properly fitted respiratory protection appropriate for fine wood dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse eye protection and a face shield when turning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid prolonged skin contact with wood dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain good workshop ventilation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClean dust using extraction rather than compressed air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndividuals with known rosewood sensitivities should take particular care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCITES \u0026amp; Conservation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo (Dalbergia congestiflora) is covered by CITES Appendix II, along with most other species in the Dalbergia genus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInternational trade in covered wood products may require permits or other documentation, depending on the form of the material and applicable exemptions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCITES requirements can differ for raw wood, blanks, finished products, and certain musical instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuyers and sellers should verify current CITES rules and national import\/export requirements before shipping internationally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResponsible sourcing and accurate botanical identification are especially important for rosewoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInteresting Facts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNaturally Purple Rosewood: Camatillo is valued for its vivid violet and reddish-purple heartwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrue Rosewood: The species belongs to the genus Dalbergia, which includes many highly prized decorative hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMexican Kingwood: Camatillo is sometimes sold under this name, although the name is also used for other species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor Changes with Age: Fresh purple tones may darken into deeper brownish-purple shades over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExceptional Density: Camatillo is one of the heavier hardwoods encountered in specialty woodworking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine Polishing Potential: Its dense, fine texture can produce a smooth, lustrous finished surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy Choose Camatillo Wood?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo combines extraordinary natural purple coloration, dramatic dark streaking, exceptional density, and fine texture in one premium Mexican rosewood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts violet, plum, burgundy, and purple-brown tones create a distinctive appearance that stands out in custom woodworking projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor pen makers, knife makers, woodturners, and fine craftsmen, Camatillo offers a beautiful alternative to more commonly used exotic hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're turning a custom pen, crafting a knife handle, making a bottle stopper, or creating a decorative piece, Camatillo provides rich natural color and the potential for an exceptionally smooth finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOakbrook Wood Turning Supply offers Camatillo Wood for craftsmen seeking distinctive exotic hardwood blanks with dramatic color, beautiful grain, and premium finishing potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCamatillo, Camatillo wood, Camatillo wood blanks, Camatillo pen blanks, Camatillo turning blanks, Camatillo turning wood, Camatillo hardwood, Camatillo wood for sale, Mexican Kingwood, Mexican Kingwood wood, Mexican Kingwood rosewood, Mexican Kingwood blanks, Dalbergia congestiflora, Dalbergia congestiflora wood, Mexican rosewood, purple rosewood, purple hardwood, violet wood, purple exotic wood, dense rosewood, exotic rosewood, true rosewood, tropical hardwood, exotic hardwood, exotic wood blanks, premium hardwood blanks, specialty hardwood blanks, pen making wood, pen turning blanks, woodturning blanks, wood lathe blanks, knife handle blanks, knife scale blanks, bottle stopper blanks, game call blanks, duck call blanks, decorative turning wood, custom handle wood, musical instrument wood, fine woodworking, woodworking supplies, Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45234616533192,"sku":"Camatillo 114","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0004\/1399\/0978\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_e4a4f7fb-edda-475c-96f0-370ac4525344.jpg?v=1792250902","url":"https:\/\/oakbrookwoodturningsupply.com\/products\/camatillo-pen-blank-xxl-13","provider":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","version":"1.0","type":"link"}