Wood Species Guide
Pale Moon Ebony
Diospyros malabarica (syn. D. embryopteris, D. peregrina)
Also called: Black and White Ebony, Malabar Ebony, Pale Moon
What Pale Moon Ebony looks like
Creamy to pale yellow wood streaked and swirled with jet-black bands. No two pieces look alike, and the contrast is the whole appeal.
Grain and texture
Grain is straight to wavy, with a fine, even texture and a gentle natural shine.
Working Pale Moon Ebony: planing, cutting and gluing
Works and turns well for an ebony, since it is softer than the solid-black types. Pieces can check while drying, so expect sealed blanks and small cracks near the ends. Insect holes are common and can be filled.
Finishing Pale Moon Ebony: oil, film finishes and epoxy
Takes oil, wax and film finishes well. When sanding, the black streaks shed dark dust that can muddy the pale wood, so vacuum between grits and wipe with a dry cloth. Fill insect holes with clear or black epoxy and seal-coat before any larger pour.
Durability, stability and Florida humidity
The wood is reported to be very durable against decay, though borer holes are common in the stock. It is used for small indoor pieces; keep blanks sealed in Florida humidity until you are ready to turn them.
Shop notes from our Fort Myers shop
Pale moon ebony is a turner's and knife maker's wood: bowls, pens, knife scales and small boxes. The black-and-cream swirls are striking, so let the figure lead the design. We don't stock it, but ask us and we can often source it. Pieces are usually small, so plan around blank sizes.
Common uses for Pale Moon Ebony
Turned objects, pens, knife scales, inlay, boxes and other small specialty items.
Sustainability and CITES status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices (the CITES ebony listing covers only Madagascar Diospyros populations) or on the IUCN Red List.
Safety and toxicity
- Sensitizer (allergy builds with exposure)
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation
Like other ebonies, the dust can irritate skin and eyes and may sensitize some people. Few reports are specific to this species.
- In the shop
- Dust collection + mask when sanding; gloves for sensitive skin
- Food contact
- Use with care for cutting boards, bowls and utensils
General information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you have a reaction.
Ebony dust can irritate the skin and eyes and has been reported as a sensitizer. Use dust collection and a mask.
Pale Moon Ebony in stock now
Ask us. We can often source it.
We don't have Pale Moon Ebony 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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