Scale of Exotic Woods
Janka Hardness Rating for species discussed in this article
MACASSAR EBONY (Diospyros celebica)
The name of the species comes from the Indonesian port-city of Makassar. Macassar Ebony is considered one of the most expensive timber woods in the world. Due to its high density, the wood can be rather difficult to work with. However, the texture of the wood is very fine with small pores. The light reddish, brown and black stripes resemble the appearance of Zebrawood. The rot resistance of Macassar's heartwood is very resistant to fungi decay and reported to be susceptible to insect attack. JANKA RATING OF 3220.
COCOBOLO (Dalbergia retusa)
This tropical hardwood originates from Central America where only the heartwood is used. The rich texture has colors ranging from yellow, orange, red to shades of brown with purple and black streaks. The high level of oil causes difficulties in gluing. This exotic wood species is commonly used in musical instruments, fine furniture, turning and other small objects. JANKA RATING OF 2960.
JATOBA (Hymenaea courbaril)
Also known as "Brazilian Cherry", Jatoba is a popular species for luxurious flooring in residential locations. The beautiful colors of light orange brown, reddish brown and grayish streaks make the finishing exquisitely magnificent. The interlocked grain has a good natural luster with a medium coarse texture. The durability level is high, with a good resistance to rot, termite, and other insects. Although considered difficult to work with for its density and hardness, Jatoba glues, stains, and finishes well. JANKA RATING OF 2690.
Macassar Ebony veneer graces the door face and top of Earl Kelly's "Africa Cabinet."
Jatoba flooring shines in the crisp, minimal interior detailing of the Harkavy House project.
Janka Hardness Rating [for species discussed in this article]
- Sapele
- Lyptus®
- Zebrawood
- Purple Heart
- Pink Ivory
- Jatoba
- Cocobolo
- Maccassar Ebony
- Cumaru
- African Blackwood
(Scale: 0 – 4000)
The Janka rating is determined by embedding a .444 inch steel ball to half of its diameter into a sample of wood. This method leaves an indent in the wood which displays the dent and wear of the specific wood species. The higher the scale, the harder the wood will be.
Frequently asked questions
Where does Macassar Ebony get its name?+
Macassar Ebony is named after the Indonesian port-city of Makassar. It is considered one of the most expensive timber woods in the world.
What is the Janka hardness rating of Cocobolo?+
Cocobolo has a Janka rating of 2960. It is a tropical hardwood from Central America where only the heartwood is used.
Why is Jatoba called Brazilian Cherry and where is it commonly used?+
Jatoba is also known as Brazilian Cherry and is a popular species for luxurious flooring in residential locations. Its colors range from light orange brown to reddish brown with grayish streaks, and it has a Janka rating of 2690.
How is the Janka hardness rating of wood determined?+
The Janka rating is determined by embedding a .444 inch steel ball to half of its diameter into a sample of wood. The resulting indent displays the dent and wear of the specific species — the higher the scale, the harder the wood.
Why is Cocobolo difficult to glue?+
Cocobolo's high level of natural oil causes difficulties in gluing. It is commonly used in musical instruments, fine furniture, turning, and other small objects.
How durable is Jatoba wood against rot and insects?+
Jatoba has a high durability level with good resistance to rot, termites, and other insects. Despite being difficult to work with due to its density and hardness, it glues, stains, and finishes well.