Craft heirloom-quality works with East Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia) bowl blanks. Prized for its rich purple‑brown to deep chocolate hues, this classic hardwood often displays darker streaking and an elegant, sometimes wavy grain. Also known as Sonokeling or Indian Rosewood, it offers exceptional density and tonal properties. Each blank is in its natural, unseasoned state (12–16% MC), giving you the freedom to turn and dry slowly for optimal stability. Ideal for fine turning, lidded boxes, and collectors’ bowls that resonate with beauty and tradition.
Specifications
- Wood Name: East Indian Rosewood, Indian Rosewood, Sonokeling
- Botanical Name: Dalbergia latifolia
- Length: Available in 4 – 8 inches
- Width: Available in 4 – 8 inches
- Thickness: Available in 2 – 3 inches
- Dried: Not Dried
- Moisture Content: 12–16%
Features
- Deep purple‑brown heartwood with contrasting darker streaks
- Fine, uniform texture with occasional wavy or mottled figure
- High density and natural oils for a brilliant polished finish
- At 12–16% MC – ideal for controlled drying or immediate turning
- Every blank shows unique colour variation; no two are alike
Workability & Performance
- Sharp tools mandatory: The dense, interlocked grain can quickly dull edges; keep tools honed for clean cuts
- Take light cuts: Especially when turning green/wet wood to avoid tear‑out
- Sands to a glossy finish: Responds beautifully to fine abrasives; natural oils enhance the polish
- Finishing: Accepts oils, shellac, or lacquer; oil finishes deepen the rich colour
- Drying note: 12–16% MC allows gradual air‑drying or careful rough‑turning before final drying
Notes
- Natural variations in grain, colour, and figure make each piece unique.
- East Indian Rosewood may contain small gum pockets or mineral streaks – part of its character.
- Due to the nature of wood movement, shrinkage and expansion are possible.
- Please measure each piece carefully before starting any project.
- Dimensions are approximate and may vary by ±⅛".
- Photo is representative; you will receive a similar blank.