Wenge rough sawn lumber
Dark exotic alternative for accent parts and premium contrast.
View optionCocobolo Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Cocobolo 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 nameDalbergia retusa
Janka hardness2,960 lbf
Average dried weight68.5 lb/ft³
Best fitTurnings
Overview
Why choose Cocobolo?
Cocobolo is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Central America. Common uses include turnings, musical instruments, fine furniture, plus other small specialty objects.
Scientific nameDalbergia retusa
DistributionCentral America
ShrinkageRadial: 2.7%, Tangential: 4.3% · Volumetric: 7.0%, T/R Ratio: 1.6
DurabilityVery durable, and it resists insects.
Cocobolo colour, grain, and figure
Cocobolo shows a kaleidoscope of colours, from yellow, orange and red to shades of brown, with black or purple streaks. The sapwood is usually a very pale yellow.
Straight or interlocked grain, fine and even in texture, with a good natural sheen.
Working notes
The wood is very oily, which can now and then cause gluing problems. The colour can also bleed into neighbouring wood during finishing, so seal coats should be applied carefully to avoid smearing colour or oils.
Strongly allergenic.
Cocobolo should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Cocobolo
Best projects
Common uses include turnings, musical instruments, fine furniture, plus other small specialty objects.
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 Cocobolo 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.
Walnut lumber collection
Practical dark premium alternative when the project needs easier machining.
View optionSimilar 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.
Cocobolo FAQ
What is Cocobolo best used for?
Common uses include turnings, musical instruments, fine furniture, plus other small specialty objects. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Cocobolo 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 Cocobolo?
The buying section on this page links to any Cocobolo 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.