Kingwood
Scientific name: Dalbergia cearensis
Overview
Kingwood is a dense and highly prized South American hardwood known for its rich purple to dark violet coloration, often accented with black streaks. Native to Brazil, it is one of the most valued species within the Dalbergia genus.
Traditionally used in fine furniture, inlay work, and luxury decorative items, Kingwood is sought after for its striking appearance, density, and ability to take a high polish.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Kingwood
- Scientific Name: Dalbergia cearensis
- Region: South American Hardwoods (Brazil)
- Tree Size: 30–50 ft tall, 1–2 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 75 lbs/ft³ (1,200 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 3,840 lbf
- Color: Dark violet to purple with black streaks
- Grain: Straight to slightly interlocked
- Texture: Fine
Identification Characteristics
Kingwood is identified by its deep purple coloration and dense, fine texture. The wood often darkens over time, developing a richer tone.
Key identification traits include:
- Dark purple to violet heartwood
- Black streaking or veining
- Fine, smooth texture
- Very dense and heavy
Working Properties
Kingwood is difficult to work due to its density but produces excellent results when properly handled.
- Difficult to machine
- Blunting effect on tools
- Turns and polishes exceptionally well
- Gluing can be challenging due to natural oils
- Finishes to a very high natural luster
Safety Note
Dust may cause allergic reactions or irritation. Proper protection is recommended.
Common Uses
Kingwood is used primarily in fine and decorative woodworking applications.
- Fine furniture
- Inlay and marquetry
- Turned objects
- Musical instruments
- Luxury decorative items
Sustainability & Notes
Kingwood (Dalbergia cearensis) is listed under CITES Appendix II, meaning trade is regulated. Responsible sourcing and proper documentation are essential when purchasing this species.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Brazilian Rosewood – Similar genus with comparable density and luxury applications.
Cocobolo – Another Dalbergia species with high density and oily characteristics.
Honduran Rosewood – Similar fine texture and use in musical instruments.
Related Guides
Understanding CITES & Protected Species
Important for regulated woods like Kingwood.
Machining Dense Tropical Hardwoods
Helpful when working with extremely dense species.
Bocote vs. Ziricote Compare two of Mexico’s most striking hardwoods, examining differences in color, grain patterns, workability, durability, stability, and the woodworking projects each species is best suited for.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Kingwood is one of the most desirable Dalbergia species for collectors due to its deep purple coloration and rarity. Smaller pieces with strong color contrast and tight grain are especially valued, particularly for high-end decorative applications.
Video Overview
Share Your Photos of This Species
Do you have lumber, wood samples, tree photographs, woodworking projects, furniture, carvings, turnings, musical instruments, or other items made from this species?
Exotic Woods of the World welcomes photographs from woodworkers, collectors, sawyers, researchers, and wood enthusiasts around the world. Selected submissions may be featured on this page and throughout our website to help document and showcase real-world examples of this species.
When submitting photos, please include the common name, scientific name (if known), a brief description, and any information you would like us to share with the image.
Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Through the Adopt a Species program, visitors can help support ongoing species research, educational content, photography, video production, and future conservation awareness initiatives.
Contributions help fund the continued expansion of this archive while promoting sustainable forestry education and the long-term appreciation of the world’s forests.
Interested in supporting this species? Visit our Adopt a Species and Conservation Partners pages to learn more.
Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
Related Tools & Products:
• DEWALT 12-Inch Double Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw for accurate crosscuts, bevels, and angled cuts
https://amzn.to/4tFPVK8
• POWERTEC 71002 Abrasive Cleaning Stick for extending the life of sanding belts and discs by removing buildup
https://amzn.to/421suz2
• BASE CAMP M Plus Reusable Dust Mask for protecting against wood dust during sanding and cutting
https://amzn.to/4cT8Aer
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