{"product_id":"gaboon-ebony-call-block-hybrid","title":"Gaboon Ebony Call Block Hybrid","description":"\u003cp\u003e1.5 x 1.5 x 6\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony (Diospyros crassiflora) is one of the world's most prized exotic hardwoods, celebrated for its exceptionally dark heartwood, remarkable density, fine texture, and ability to achieve a beautiful, mirror-like polish. Often considered the classic black ebony, Gaboon Ebony is highly sought after by woodturners, pen makers, knife makers, musical instrument builders, and fine woodworkers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnown for its deep black to dark chocolate-brown coloration, Gaboon Ebony offers a refined, luxurious appearance that few other hardwoods can match. Its dense structure, smooth texture, and outstanding polishing characteristics make it an excellent choice for custom pens, knife handles, bottle stoppers, decorative turnings, instrument components, and specialty woodworking projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike striped ebony species such as Macassar Ebony, Gaboon Ebony is particularly valued for its dark, often nearly uniform black heartwood. Natural color variation, including dark brown and subtle streaking, may occur.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery piece of Gaboon Ebony has its own unique character, making this exceptional African hardwood a premium choice for craftsmen seeking beauty, durability, and a distinctive finished appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Information\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Name: Diospyros crassiflora Hiern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFamily: Ebenaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGenus: Diospyros\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecies: Diospyros crassiflora\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Type: Dense tropical hardwood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrimary Origin: West and Central Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon \u0026amp; Trade Names\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony, Gabon Ebony, African Ebony, African Black Ebony, Black Ebony, Genuine Ebony, Ebony Wood, Cameroon Ebony, Nigerian Ebony, and Diospyros crassiflora.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImportant: The trade names African Ebony, Black Ebony, and Genuine Ebony can also be used for other Diospyros species. This listing specifically refers to Diospyros crassiflora.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Distribution\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony is native to tropical forests of West and Central Africa, including countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and the Republic of the Congo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe species grows in humid tropical forest environments and is known for producing extremely dense, dark heartwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause Gaboon Ebony trees grow relatively slowly and the most desirable uniformly black heartwood is limited, high-quality material has long been considered a premium specialty hardwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony has historically been used for musical instruments, fine furniture accents, decorative inlays, carving, and other applications where a dense, dark hardwood is desirable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor \u0026amp; Appearance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony is renowned for its exceptionally dark heartwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeartwood may display:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJet black\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeep black\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDark chocolate brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlackish brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDark grayish brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOccasional subtle brown streaks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sapwood is generally pale cream, yellowish white, or light gray and contrasts sharply with the dark heartwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome pieces may appear almost completely black, while others display subtle variations in color and grain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe darkest, most uniform material is particularly desirable for premium woodworking and musical instrument applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain \u0026amp; Texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony generally has a fine, even texture with grain ranging from straight to irregular or occasionally interlocked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon characteristics include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine, uniform texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStraight or irregular grain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExtremely dense structure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall, inconspicuous pores\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmooth polished surfaces\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural dark coloration\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts fine texture and high density allow Gaboon Ebony to achieve an exceptionally smooth finish, making it particularly desirable for small precision projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Characteristics\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony is an extremely dense and hard tropical hardwood with excellent wear resistance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRepresentative characteristics for Diospyros crassiflora include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAverage Dried Weight: Approximately 60 lbs\/ft³ (955 kg\/m³)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecific Gravity: Approximately 0.82 basic \/ 0.96 at 12% moisture content\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJanka Hardness: Approximately 3,080 lbf (13,700 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\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese values are representative of the species. Actual characteristics may vary depending on the individual tree, growing conditions, and moisture content.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStability \u0026amp; Durability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony is valued for its exceptional hardness, density, and resistance to wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts heartwood is generally considered durable, although its performance can vary depending on environmental conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike many extremely dense tropical hardwoods, Gaboon Ebony can be susceptible to checking and cracking during drying or when exposed to rapid changes in humidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProper drying, storage, and acclimation are especially important for maintaining stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor small precision projects such as pens, knife handles, and musical instrument components, properly dried Gaboon Ebony can provide excellent long-term performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorkability \u0026amp; Woodturning\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony is highly prized for premium woodturning and fine woodworking, but its exceptional density and hardness require careful machining techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSharp carbide or high-speed steel tools are recommended. Light cuts and controlled tool presentation can help minimize tear-out, chipping, and heat buildup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of its density, Gaboon Ebony can dull cutting edges more quickly than softer hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wood is particularly well suited for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustom 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\u003eDuck calls\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative turning\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJewelry\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall boxes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical instrument components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine carving\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative inlays\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts fine texture and dense structure allow craftsmen to create crisp details and beautifully polished surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinishing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony is known for its ability to achieve a beautiful, high-gloss finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePopular finishing options include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine sanding and buffing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardwax oils\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShellac\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLacquer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePolyurethane\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCyanoacrylate (CA) finishes for pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWax finishes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause Ebony can contain natural oils and extractives, some adhesives and finishes may require additional surface preparation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA clear finish is generally preferred to preserve its natural black coloration and subtle grain characteristics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCareful sanding through progressively finer grits followed by polishing can produce a smooth, luxurious appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal Uses\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony wood blanks are excellent for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePen blanks and custom pens\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWoodturning projects\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\u003eTurkey call components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative handles\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJewelry and accessories\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall boxes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical instrument components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFingerboards and instrument accents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDecorative inlays\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine carving\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecialty woodworking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollectible and artistic projects\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHealth \u0026amp; Safety\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony wood dust can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEbony species have been associated with skin irritation, respiratory irritation, and sensitization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotential concerns include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkin Irritation: Wood dust may cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRespiratory Irritation: Inhalation may irritate the nose, throat, and respiratory system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEye Irritation: Fine airborne particles may cause redness and 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 Gaboon Ebony:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse effective dust collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWear properly fitted respiratory protection appropriate for fine wood dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse safety glasses or a face shield as appropriate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid prolonged skin contact with accumulated dust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain adequate workshop ventilation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClean work areas using dust extraction rather than compressed air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause Gaboon Ebony is exceptionally dense, avoid excessive friction and heat buildup during machining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCITES \u0026amp; Conservation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony (Diospyros crassiflora) is a conservation-sensitive hardwood due to its slow growth, limited availability of premium heartwood, and historical harvesting pressure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe species has been assessed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, making responsible sourcing particularly important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony is not generally covered by the CITES listing for Madagascar Diospyros species, which applies to specific populations and species from Madagascar. However, international trade regulations, country-specific export restrictions, and applicable forestry laws should always be verified.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuyers should confirm the botanical identity and legal sourcing of material when documentation is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInteresting Facts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClassic Black Ebony: Gaboon Ebony is one of the best-known sources of naturally black ebony wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExtremely Dense: Its high density and hardness make it one of the heavier commercially traded hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExceptional Polish: Gaboon Ebony can achieve an extremely smooth, glossy surface that resembles polished stone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical Instruments: Ebony has traditionally been used for piano keys, fingerboards, and other instrument components.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural Color: The wood's dark coloration occurs naturally and does not require staining or dyeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePremium Hardwood: Uniformly black Gaboon Ebony is especially desirable for fine woodworking and luxury applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy Choose Gaboon Ebony Wood?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony combines exceptional density, naturally dark coloration, fine texture, and outstanding polishing characteristics in one premium African hardwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts deep black to dark chocolate-brown heartwood creates a refined, luxurious appearance, while its dense structure allows for crisp details and beautifully polished surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor woodturners, pen makers, knife makers, call makers, instrument builders, and fine woodworkers, Gaboon Ebony offers an exceptional material for creating distinctive, premium-quality projects.\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, Gaboon Ebony provides natural beauty and a finished appearance that few other hardwoods can match.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOakbrook Wood Turning Supply offers Gaboon Ebony wood for craftsmen seeking premium exotic hardwood blanks with exceptional darkness, density, and natural elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGaboon Ebony, Gaboon Ebony wood, Gaboon Ebony wood blanks, Gaboon Ebony pen blanks, Gaboon Ebony turning blanks, Gaboon Ebony turning wood, Gaboon Ebony hardwood, Gaboon Ebony wood for sale, Gabon Ebony, African Ebony, African Black Ebony, Black Ebony, Genuine Ebony, Cameroon Ebony, Nigerian Ebony, Diospyros crassiflora, Diospyros crassiflora wood, Ebony wood, Ebony wood blanks, Ebony pen blanks, Ebony turning blanks, black hardwood, black exotic wood, naturally black wood, dense hardwood, hard exotic wood, premium exotic hardwood, exotic wood blanks, specialty wood blanks, Gaboon Ebony knife handles, Gaboon Ebony knife scales, Gaboon Ebony bottle stopper blanks, Gaboon Ebony call blanks, Gaboon Ebony game call blanks, Gaboon Ebony duck call blanks, pen making wood, pen turning blanks, woodturning blanks, wood lathe blanks, knife handle blanks, knife scale blanks, bottle stopper wood, carving wood, woodworking supplies, fine woodworking, specialty turning wood, premium turning blanks, Oakbrook \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45230665564360,"sku":"Gaboon 130","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0004\/1399\/0978\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_b1d8a66a-09a0-4dd0-a5a1-3ccf655172bc.jpg?v=1791730471","url":"https:\/\/oakbrookwoodturningsupply.com\/products\/gaboon-ebony-call-block-hybrid","provider":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","version":"1.0","type":"link"}