Scientific Name
Dalbergia retusa
Other Names
Nicaragua rosewood, granadillo, nambar, palisandro
Family
Fabaceae or Leguminosae, the legume family
Geography
Cocobolo is found in western Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama, Mexico, Colombia, Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala.
Properties
The heartwood of Cocobolo varies. It could be described as rainbow-hued but turns with exposure to light and air, turning a deep red with black striping or mottling. Its texture is medium to fine and the grain is fairly straight to interwoven.
Workability
Cocobolo is very durable and possesses a natural oily substance that makes it waterproof. Buffing it with a cloth will result in a waxy finish without the use of any finishing materials. It turns well and finishes smoothly. It does not glue well due to its waxy surface. Beware of the fine dust caused by working with Cocobolo because it can produce a rash resembling poison ivy.
Uses
Cocobolo is used extensively for cutlery and small tool and brush handles due to its lovely color and waterproof nature. It is also used for musical instruments, scientific instruments, steering wheels for boats, jewelry boxes, canes, and chess pieces.
Price Level
Limited availability, high price range
