Cocobolo

see also: Etymology of Cocobolo

The cocobolo is a reddish wood turpentine produced by some species of trees of the kind Dalbergia which push in Central America. The most known species and that which provides the major part of wood on the market are Dalbergia retusa , a tree of a size from 20 to 25 meters. Because of its great esthetic qualities, of its color and its solidity, the cocobolo is overexploited and the tree is now in danger of extinction apart from the national parks, the reserves and the plantations. It is necessary between 80 and 100 years so that the tree reaches maturity and can be exploited.

The cocobolo changes color after being cut. It is in general orange or brown-red, with darker irregular veins. Wood has a texture fine and oily, it resists well the external aggressions like handling and the presence of water. It is very hard and can be easily worked. It is dense and even a broad block of wood will produce a clear sound if it is struck.

An minor amount of this expensive wood is available on the market. It is often used in decorative objects or small parts as the handles of weapons or the handles of knives. He is appreciated in marquetry, the manufacture of guitars (the firm Alembic Inc regards the cocobolo as its wood of predilection and the artists as Stanley Clarke uses the low ones in cocobolo), the wind instruments (clarinets, oboe, etc) or the manufacture of boxes, bowls, feathers, etc Certaines boats use it like wood of ballast. The cocobolo has a density higher than 1.0, with the result that it runs.

Precautions must be taken when he is worked. The oils contained in wood can produce serious allergies, the eyes and the respiratory tracts are particularly concerned in the event of presence of dust. A system of aspiration and a protection mask are strongly recommended.

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