Ebony

 What is it?

Ebony is a rare and highly prized tropical hardwood known for its dense, fine grain and lustrous, deep black or dark coloration. Sourced primarily from the heartwood of the Diospyros genus of trees in Africa and Asia. It is one of the densest woods in the world and can even sink in water. Its exceptional hardness and durability have made it a luxury material for centuries, prized for decorative work, fine furniture inlays, and musical instruments like piano keys and guitar fretboards. However, due to its slow growth and high demand, many ebony species are now endangered, making the wood scarce and one of the most expensive hardwoods available.

 Why I love it

I love the elegance and deep color of ebony. Its dark, almost black finish gives an air of sophistication, making it a perfect choice for luxury items. Ebony's smooth finish makes it a joy to work with, and its strength and stability are unmatched.

Key traits

- Color: Rich, dark black, often with brown or dark brown streaks.

- Grain: Fine, uniform grain that gives it a smooth, even texture.

- Hardness: Very dense and heavy, requiring specialized tools for carving and turning.

- Durability: Extremely durable and resistant to damage.

- Workability: Difficult to work with due to its density, but takes an excellent polish.

Care tips

Ebony should be cleaned with a soft cloth and treated with oil or wax to preserve its finish. Due to its density, it is more resistant to moisture, but it is still best to avoid exposure to extreme temperature changes.

Featured in our shop

Ebony wood is used to make musical instrument parts,  decorative objects, and inlay work.  At 86 Custom Woodworking, Ebony wood is at a premium, so we craft exclusive, high-end items from ebony, including premium cutting boards and luxury furniture. Its elegant beauty and unmatched durability make it a standout in our collection.