Wenge rough sawn lumber
Dark exotic alternative for accent parts and premium contrast.
View optionKingwood Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
Kingwood 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 cearensis
Janka hardness2,660 lbf
Average dried weight65.1 lb/ft³
Best fitTool handles
Overview
Why choose Kingwood?
Kingwood is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Brazil. Common uses include tool handles, veneers, inlays, plus other small turned or specialty items.
Scientific nameDalbergia cearensis
DistributionBrazil
ShrinkageRadial: 6.9%, Tangential: 9.3% · Volumetric: 16.5%, T/R Ratio: 1.4
DurabilityReported to be very durable against decay and termites.
Kingwood colour, grain, and figure
The heartwood is dark reddish brown or purplish brown, with black streaks that are darker still. The pale yellow sapwood is sharply set off from the heartwood.
Grain usually runs straight but sometimes interlocked. The texture is fine and even, with a high natural sheen.
Working notes
Its high density makes it hard to work. Kingwood dulls cutters moderately, and interlocked grain may tear out when planed.
Serious reactions are rare, but kingwood is a known sensitizer in some people.
Kingwood should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for Kingwood
Best projects
Common uses include tool handles, veneers, inlays, plus other small turned or specialty items.
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 Kingwood 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.
Kingwood FAQ
What is Kingwood best used for?
Common uses include tool handles, veneers, inlays, plus other small turned or specialty items. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is Kingwood 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 Kingwood?
The buying section on this page links to any Kingwood 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.