Scientific Name: Dalbergia maritima
Origin: Native to Madagascar, primarily found in the dry forests of the island.
CITES Status: Listed under CITES Appendix II (regulated trade due to concerns over overharvesting and habitat loss).
Use in Guitar Making
Bois de Rose, also known as Madagascar Rosewood, is a highly sought-after tonewood used primarily for acoustic guitar backs and sides, fingerboards, and bridges. It is often compared to Brazilian Rosewood for its tonal characteristics and striking visual appeal. Due to its rarity and high density, it is typically reserved for high-end, custom-built instruments.
Tonal Properties
Bois de Rose offers a rich, resonant tone with deep lows, strong mids, and shimmering highs. It has an articulate, complex overtone structure, making it a highly responsive and dynamic wood. Some builders consider it to be one of the finest alternatives to Brazilian Rosewood due to its tonal depth and sustain.
Hardness and Workability
Janka Hardness Rating: Approximately 2,940 lbf (13,080 N)
Bois de Rose is an extremely dense and oily wood, which can make it challenging to work with. It requires sharp tools to prevent tear-out, and its high natural oil content can make glueing difficult without proper surface preparation. However, once finished, it polishes to a rich, glass-like sheen.
Grain Structure and Porosity
Bois de Rose has a fine to medium texture with a tight, straight to slightly interlocked grain. It features a striking deep purple to dark brown colouration, often darkening further with age. Its grain is relatively closed, requiring minimal grain filling before finishing.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
Due to extensive logging and habitat destruction, Bois de Rose is listed under CITES Appendix II, requiring permits for international trade. Sustainable sourcing is a major concern, and responsible forestry practices are essential to preserving the species for future use. Some luthiers have turned to reclaimed or legally harvested stock to ensure compliance with conservation regulations.
Bois de Rose remains one of the most luxurious and sought-after tonewoods in guitar making, offering exceptional tonal properties and visual appeal. However, its future use depends on sustainable harvesting and adherence to strict international trade laws.
