{"product_id":"pau-ferro","title":"Pau Ferro","description":"\u003cp\u003e1.45 x 1.45 x 6\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro Wood (Machaerium scleroxylon) is a distinctive South American hardwood admired for its rich coloration, dramatic grain patterns, exceptional hardness, and beautiful polished appearance. Commonly known as Bolivian Rosewood, Pau Ferro is highly valued by woodturners, pen makers, knife makers, musical instrument builders, and fine woodworkers seeking an exotic hardwood with the appearance of rosewood and its own unique characteristics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts heartwood typically ranges from golden brown and reddish brown to deep chocolate brown, often accented by dark brown or nearly black streaks. Some pieces display bold, irregular grain patterns, while others feature more subtle, flowing lines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro is especially appealing for custom pens, knife handles, bottle stoppers, game calls, jewelry, decorative turnings, and fine woodworking accents. Its dense structure, attractive natural luster, and ability to develop a smooth finish make it an excellent choice for projects where both appearance and durability matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor craftsmen who appreciate richly colored tropical hardwoods, Pau Ferro offers a sophisticated combination of natural beauty, strength, and versatility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Information\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Name: Machaerium scleroxylon Tul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFamily: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGenus: Machaerium\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecies: Machaerium scleroxylon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Type: Tropical hardwood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative Origin: Tropical South America, particularly Bolivia and Brazil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Group: Machaerium hardwood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Note: Pau Ferro is a trade name that may occasionally be applied to other species. This listing specifically identifies the wood as Machaerium scleroxylon, the species commonly marketed as Bolivian Rosewood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon \u0026amp; Trade Names\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro, Pau Ferro Wood, Bolivian Rosewood, Santos Rosewood, Morado, Morado Wood, Caviuna, and Machaerium scleroxylon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImportant: Despite names such as Bolivian Rosewood and Santos Rosewood, Pau Ferro is not a true rosewood of the genus Dalbergia. It belongs to the related genus Machaerium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe name Pau Ferro is also used for other unrelated hardwoods in some regional markets, making botanical identification important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Distribution\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro is native to tropical regions of South America, particularly Bolivia and Brazil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe species grows in tropical and seasonally dry forest environments and is valued for its dense, richly colored heartwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro has become popular in specialty woodworking because of its striking appearance and excellent mechanical properties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is frequently used for musical instrument components, furniture, flooring, decorative veneers, and fine woodworking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor woodturners and small-project craftsmen, Pau Ferro offers the same attractive grain and rich coloration in compact blanks suitable for pens, handles, calls, and decorative objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor \u0026amp; Appearance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro is prized for its beautiful range of warm brown and reddish tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeartwood may display:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReddish brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedium chocolate brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDark chocolate brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurplish-brown undertones\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDark brown streaks\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNearly black grain lines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sapwood is typically much lighter, often appearing pale yellow or cream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome pieces show relatively straight, uniform grain, while others display bold, irregular streaking and dramatic color contrast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFreshly worked surfaces may show brighter reddish or golden tones, which can deepen or mellow with exposure to light and air.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClear finishes enhance the wood's natural depth and emphasize its attractive grain patterns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain \u0026amp; Texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro generally features a fine to medium texture with grain that may be straight, irregular, or interlocked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon characteristics include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine to medium texture\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStraight to interlocked grain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAttractive dark streaking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRich natural color variation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDense wood structure\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eModerate natural luster\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent polishing potential\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts fine texture allows carefully prepared surfaces to develop a smooth, polished appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterlocked grain can occasionally cause tear-out during machining, making sharp tools and controlled cutting techniques important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Characteristics\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro is a heavy, hard tropical hardwood with excellent wear resistance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRepresentative characteristics for Machaerium scleroxylon include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAverage Dried Weight: Approximately 54 lbs\/ft³ (865 kg\/m³)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecific Gravity: Approximately 0.69 basic \/ 0.87 at 12% moisture content\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJanka Hardness: Approximately 1,960 lbf (8,720 N)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrain: Straight to interlocked\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTexture: Fine to medium\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural Luster: Moderate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor: Golden brown to reddish brown with dark streaking\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese figures are representative species values. Individual blanks may vary depending on moisture content, growing conditions, and grain structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStability \u0026amp; Durability\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProperly dried Pau Ferro generally offers good dimensional stability and excellent wear resistance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts dense structure makes it suitable for items that benefit from a hard, durable surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro is also regarded as having good natural decay resistance, although performance depends on exposure conditions and the individual piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike all hardwoods, Pau Ferro responds to changes in moisture and humidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor precision projects such as pens, knife handles, and game calls, properly seasoned and acclimated material is recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorkability \u0026amp; Woodturning\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro is highly valued for woodturning and fine woodworking, although its density and occasional interlocked grain can make machining more demanding than with softer hardwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSharp tools and controlled cutting techniques are recommended.\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 to minimize tear-out.\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\u003eUse appropriate dust extraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAllow blanks to acclimate before precision machining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro is particularly appealing 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\u003eDuck calls\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 components\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine woodworking accents\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts combination of density, attractive grain, and polished appearance makes it an excellent choice for premium small woodworking projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinishing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro can develop a beautiful, smooth finish that enhances its rich coloration and dark streaking.\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 polishing compounds\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike many dense tropical hardwoods, Pau Ferro may contain natural oils and extractives that can interfere with certain adhesives or finishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurface preparation and testing are recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClear finishes can deepen its reddish-brown and chocolate-brown tones while emphasizing the contrast of darker grain lines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal Uses\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro 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\u003ePau Ferro wood dust can cause irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe species has been associated with skin sensitization, and repeated exposure to wood dust may increase the risk of developing a reaction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotential concerns include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkin Irritation: Dust may cause itching, redness, or contact dermatitis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRespiratory Irritation: Fine airborne particles may irritate the nose, throat, and lungs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEye Irritation: Dust may cause redness or 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 Pau Ferro:\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 sensitivities to tropical hardwoods should take particular care.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCITES \u0026amp; Conservation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro (Machaerium scleroxylon) is not generally listed under CITES.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough commonly marketed as Bolivian Rosewood or Santos Rosewood, it is not a member of the Dalbergia genus and should not automatically be assigned the same CITES restrictions that apply to many true rosewoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, harvesting, export, and import requirements may still apply under national or regional forestry laws.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResponsible sourcing and accurate botanical identification remain important.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInternational buyers should verify current trade regulations and any required documentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInteresting Facts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot a True Rosewood: Despite the name Bolivian Rosewood, Pau Ferro belongs to the genus Machaerium, not Dalbergia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeaning of Pau Ferro: The Portuguese name translates to \"ironwood,\" reflecting the wood's hardness and density.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMusical Instrument Favorite: Pau Ferro is widely used for guitar fingerboards, bridges, and other instrument components.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeautiful Natural Streaking: Its dark grain lines can create dramatic patterns resembling certain rosewoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent Polishing Potential: Its dense, fine texture can produce a smooth, lustrous finished surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDurable Hardwood: Pau Ferro's hardness and wear resistance make it useful for both decorative and functional projects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy Choose Pau Ferro Wood?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro combines rich natural coloration, dramatic dark streaking, exceptional hardness, and beautiful finishing potential in one premium South American hardwood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts golden-brown, reddish-brown, and chocolate-brown tones create an elegant appearance, while its darker grain lines give each piece distinctive character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor pen makers, knife makers, woodturners, instrument builders, and fine craftsmen, Pau Ferro offers an attractive alternative to traditional rosewoods.\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, Pau Ferro provides natural beauty, strength, and excellent polishing potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOakbrook Wood Turning Supply offers Pau Ferro Wood for craftsmen seeking distinctive exotic hardwood blanks with rich color, beautiful grain, and dependable woodworking performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePau Ferro, Pau Ferro wood, Pau Ferro wood blanks, Pau Ferro pen blanks, Pau Ferro turning blanks, Pau Ferro turning wood, Pau Ferro hardwood, Pau Ferro wood for sale, Bolivian Rosewood, Bolivian Rosewood wood, Bolivian Rosewood blanks, Bolivian Rosewood pen blanks, Bolivian Rosewood turning blanks, Santos Rosewood, Santos Rosewood wood, Morado, Morado wood, Machaerium scleroxylon, Machaerium scleroxylon wood, South American hardwood, Brazilian hardwood, Bolivian hardwood, reddish brown hardwood, striped hardwood, dense 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":45234785878216,"sku":"Pau ferro 56","price":8.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0004\/1399\/0978\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_463ea788-282d-47b6-b61e-19de576d2c20.jpg?v=1792322834","url":"https:\/\/oakbrookwoodturningsupply.com\/products\/pau-ferro","provider":"Oakbrook Wood Turning Supply","version":"1.0","type":"link"}