Black and White Ebony Wood Guide

Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood

Black and White Ebony is best understood by how it looks, how it works, and where it should be used. This guide explains the practical buying details before sending you to the right Kingma products.

Scientific nameDiospyros malabarica (syn.
Janka hardness1,780 lbf
Average dried weight51 lb/ft³
Best fitInlay

Overview

Why choose Black and White Ebony?

Black and White Ebony is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Laos and elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Used for inlay, turned objects and small wood projects.

Scientific nameDiospyros malabarica (syn.
DistributionLaos and elsewhere in Southeast Asia
DurabilityVery durable according to reports, with moderate resistance to insects and borers, though insect holes are common in some parts.

Black and White Ebony colour, grain, and figure

The heartwood is pale straw with black streaking, and some pieces are mostly black rather than white. The sapwood is whiter and not always clearly defined.

Straight grain is typical, with an even, fine texture and good natural shine.

Working notes

Works and turns well in general, but drying without checking is difficult.

Diospyros ebony is a reported sensitizer, though serious reactions are rare.

Black and White Ebony should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.

Best uses for Black and White Ebony

Best projects

Used for inlay, turned objects and small wood projects.

Use caution

Avoid specifying it by name alone; confirm board size, moisture, colour, figure, and the project environment before buying.

Finish strategy

Test finishes on offcuts first, especially when colour, blotching, outdoor exposure, or grain filling matters.

Buying note

Choose boards, slabs, plywood, blanks, or posts based on the project rather than species name alone.

Shop path

Buying Black and White Ebony from Kingma

Start with the direct species match when Kingma sells it. If stock rotates, use the closest live collection or a clearly explained alternative.

Kingma option

4/4 Makassar Ebony Rough Sawn Lumber

Direct Kingma listing for Black and White Ebony; inventory, lengths, and widths can rotate by variant.

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Kingma option

Wenge rough sawn lumber

Dark exotic alternative for accent parts and premium contrast.

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Kingma option

Walnut lumber collection

Practical dark premium alternative when the project needs easier machining.

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Similar woods and alternatives

If Kingma does not have an exact match online, use the buying links below as practical alternatives only when the colour, grain, hardness, or project environment makes sense.

Black and White Ebony FAQ

What is Black and White Ebony best used for?

Used for inlay, turned objects and small wood projects. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.

Is Black and White Ebony beginner friendly?

It depends on density, grain direction, and tooling. Test cuts on offcuts first, and choose Maple, Cherry, Walnut, or Poplar when easier machining is the priority.

Does Kingma sell Black and White Ebony?

The buying section on this page links to any Black and White Ebony Kingma has in stock and to the closest alternatives. Stock changes often, so call (780) 229-7681 or visit the yard at 4607 91 Ave NW, Edmonton to check what is in today.