Bubinga
Heartwood ranges from a pinkish red to a darker reddish brown with darker purple or black streaks. Sapwood is a pale straw color and is clearly demarcated from the heartwood.
Bubinga is dark reddish-brown with veining. Its sapwood is pale. It has a fine even texture and straight interlocked grain. It finishes well and contains resin and an aromatic substance. Bubinga is very frequently seen with a variety of figure, including: pommel, flamed, waterfall, quilted, mottled, etc. It is ranges from moderately durable to very durable depending upon the species. Bubinga is also reported to be resistant to termite and marine borer attack.
Available Thickness: 1" (25, 26mm), 2" (50, 52mm).
Easy to work overall, though depending upon the species Bubinga can have silica present, which can prematurely dull cutting edges. Also, on pieces with figured or interlocking grain, tearout can occur during planning or other machining operations. Gluing can occasionally be problematic due to Bubinga’s high density and natural oils. Turns and finishes well.