Maple lumber collection
Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionGoncalo Alves Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Goncalo Alves 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 nameAstronium spp.
Janka hardness2,170 lbf
Average dried weight57 lb/ft³
Best fitFlooring
Overview
Why choose Goncalo Alves?
Goncalo Alves is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Mexico southward to Brazil. Common uses include flooring, veneers, carving, furniture, cabinetry, turned objects and small specialty items such as knife handles, archery bows and pool cues.
Scientific nameAstronium spp.
DistributionMexico southward to Brazil
ShrinkageRadial: 4.2%, Tangential: 7.8%, Volumetric: 11.2%, T/R Ratio: 1.9 More images | Identification
DurabilityGoncalo alves weathers very well and is very durable against decay.
Goncalo Alves colour, grain, and figure
The heartwood is typically a mid reddish brown with uneven streaks running dark brown to black. It darkens with age.
The grain may be straight, though wavy or interlocked is more usual. The texture is fine and even, with a good natural sheen.
Working notes
Despite its high density, goncalo alves is usually not too hard to work. Irregular figured pieces can be tricky to plane and machine.
Serious reactions are rare, but goncalo alves is a known sensitizer in some people.
Goncalo Alves should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Goncalo Alves
Best projects
Common uses include flooring, veneers, carving, furniture, cabinetry, turned objects and small specialty items such as knife handles, archery bows and pool cues.
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 Goncalo Alves 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.
Live edge slabs
Use when the customer cares more about slab format and visual impact than this exact species.
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.
Goncalo Alves FAQ
What is Goncalo Alves best used for?
Common uses include flooring, veneers, carving, furniture, cabinetry, turned objects and small specialty items such as knife handles, archery bows and pool cues. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Goncalo Alves 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 Goncalo Alves?
The buying section on this page links to any Goncalo Alves 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.