Gaboon Ebony

Specs

Common Names

Gaboon Ebony, African Ebony, Nigerian Ebony, Cameroon Ebony

Scientific Name

Diospyros crassiflora

Origin

Equatorial West Africa

Appearance

Heartwood is usually jet-black, with little to no variation or visible grain. Occasionally dark brown or grayish-brown streaks may be present. Grain is usually straight but can also be interlocked. Fine even texture with very high natural luster. Endgrain: Diffuse-porous; medium to large pores in no specific arrangement, few; solitary and radial multiples of 2-3; black mineral deposits present; growth rings indistinct; rays not visible without lens; parenchyma reticulate/banded, possibly marginal, apotracheal parenchyma diffuse-in-aggregates, paratracheal parenchyma vasicentric.

Avg. Dried Weight

60 lbs/ft3 (955 kg/m3)

Janka Hardness

3080 lbf

Modulus of Rupture

22,930 lbf/in2 (158.1 MPa)

Elastic Modulus

2,449,000 lbf/in2 (16.89 GPa)

Crushing Strength

11,060 lbf/in2 (76.3 MPa)

Shrinkage

Radial: 8.3%, Tangential: 11.2%, Volumetric: 19.6%, T/R Ratio: 1.3

Durability

Ebony is rated as being very durable, with good resistance to termites and other insects.

Workability

Can be difficult to work due to its extremely high density. Has a dulling effect on cutters. Tearout may occur on pieces that have interlocked or irregular grain. Due to the high oil content found in this wood, it can occasionally cause problems with gluing. Finishes well, and polishes to a high luster. Responds well to steam bending.