Wood Species Guide
Kingwood
Dalbergia cearensis
Also called: Violetta, Violet Wood, Bois de Violette, Jacarandá-Violeta, Brazilian Kingwood
What Kingwood looks like
Heartwood is a deep violet to purplish brown with black and sometimes golden streaks. The pale yellow sapwood is sharply set off.
Grain and texture
Grain is usually straight, occasionally interlocked, with a fine, even texture and a high natural luster.
Working Kingwood: planing, cutting and gluing
Dense and oily, so it dulls tools and can be hard to glue; wipe joints with acetone first. Interlocked spots can tear out when planing. It turns superbly and takes a glassy polish.
Finishing Kingwood: oil, film finishes and epoxy
Many turners simply sand fine and buff with wax. For a film finish, wipe with acetone and use a shellac sealer, because the oils can slow the cure. The same goes for epoxy: wipe, seal and then pour. Purple tones darken toward brown with light.
Durability, stability and Florida humidity
Very durable and resistant to termites. It is stable once dry, and most pieces are small enough that movement isn't an issue. Keep finished work indoors in Florida's AC like any fine piece.
Shop notes from our Fort Myers shop
Kingwood earned its name in French royal furniture, and today it is mostly sold as turning blanks, inlay and veneer because the trees are small. It makes stunning pens, knife scales and box lids. Its dust can stain lighter woods, so clean up before switching species. Ask us if you need a piece; we can often source it with paperwork.
Common uses for Kingwood
Inlay, marquetry, veneer, pens, knife handles, tool handles and small turned items.
Sustainability and CITES status
Listed on CITES Appendix II with all Dalbergia rosewoods, so commercial shipments across borders need permits. It is rated Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Safety and toxicity
- Sensitizer (allergy builds with exposure)
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation
A known sensitizer. Eye irritation, including pink eye, and skin rashes are reported, and reactions can grow with repeat exposure.
- In the shop
- Full precautions: dust extraction, respirator, gloves and long sleeves
- Food contact
- Not recommended for cutting boards, bowls and utensils
General information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you have a reaction.
Kingwood has been reported as a sensitizer, with eye and skin irritation including pink eye. Use dust extraction, a respirator and gloves.
Kingwood in stock now
Ask us. We can often source it.
We don't have Kingwood listed online right now, but new slabs and lumber come in all the time and not everything makes it to the website. Tell us what you're building and we'll check our racks and suppliers.
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