Scientific Name: Guibourtia demeusei
Also known as: African Rosewood, Kevazingo, Bubinga, Amazique, Rhodesian Copalwood, Avangkol, Aevazingo
Status: VULNERABLE – IUCN Redlist / CITES Appendix 2 Restricted
Origin: West Coast Africa
Traditional Uses: Fine Furniture; Cabinetry; Guitars; Wood Turning; Gunstocks; Cabinetry; Artisan Crafts
Bubinga is an excellent tonewood that has gained popularity in the luthier community. The heartwood ranges from pinkish lavender to a darker reddish brown. The sapwood provides a pleasant contrast with pale golden coloration. Bubinga is commonly referred to as African Rosewood and grows natively in the forests of west Africa and the Congo Basin. The tree can grow very large and has been a source of captivating table slabs in the past. Additionally, Bubinga trees are known for generating extreme figure such as: waterfall; pomelle; flamed; quilted and mottled. Due to the combination of heavy figure and large slab availability, this species has been overharvested and then placed on the CITES ll restricted import list. Nevertheless, it still remains readily available on the market with pricing increases can be seen correlating to the type of figure found in the lumber being considered.
This African species will respond well to sharp carbide tipped blades and is considered an easily worked exotic lumber when compared to others. African Rosewood can be polished to a good natural luster and is also very resistant to marine borers and termite attack.
Tone Qualities: Bubinga is reported to have excellent tonality, primarily because it is a bit denser than true rosewood. This attribute enhances a great sustain and clarity. Note separation with warm, even tones and a bright midrange are also prime characteristics of this wonderful tonewood.
Specific Gravity: 0.89
Hardness: 2410 Janka
Density: 74 pcf
Tangential Movement: 8.2%
Radial Movement: 6%
Volumetric Shrinkage: 13.9%
Durability: Very Good
Fine Examples of Bubinga Creations: Note: links may take you to 3rd party Websites
