Marblewood
Marmaroxylon racemosum
Trade Name: Marblewood
Scientific Name: Marmaroxylon racemosum
Common Names: Marblewood, Bois Serpent, Angelim Rajado, マーブルウッド, 大理石木, Gevlamde Bostamarinde, Serpentholz, Marmorholz
Growing Areas: Marblewood trees grow predominantly in the tropical regions of northern South America, particularly in countries such as Suriname and French Guyana.
Growing Areas and Distribution:
Native to tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname.
Thrives in humid, nutrient-rich soils.
Tree Size:
Height: Typically reaches 100-130 feet (30-40 meters).
Diameter: Trunk diameter can range from 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters).
Physical Properties:
Average Dried Weight: 56 lbs/ft³ (900 kg/m³) - Moderately dense.
Janka Hardness: 2,400 lbf (10,700 N) - Moderately hard.
Modulus of Rupture: 18,000 psi (124 MPa) - Good bending strength.
Elastic Modulus: 2,200,000 psi (15.2 GPa) - Moderately stiff.
Shrinkage: Moderate shrinkage, similar to other hardwoods.
Appearance and Working Properties:
Color/Appearance: Heartwood is a rich, deep brown color with distinctive dark brown or black streaks that resemble marble, hence the name. Sapwood is pale yellow.
Grain/Texture: Fine and even texture with a natural luster. Grain is typically straight but can be slightly interlocked.
Rot Resistance: Rated as moderately durable; resistant to decay and insect attack.
Workability: Easy to work with sharp tools. Takes a beautiful finish.
Odor: No characteristic odor.
Allergies/Toxicity: No known allergies or toxicity associated with Marblewood.
Uses and Applications:
Cabinetry and furniture: High-end furniture, countertops, and cabinetry.
Musical instruments: Guitar fretboards, violin bows, and other stringed instruments.
Fine woodworking: Bowls, pens, jewelry, and other decorative items.
Turning: Turned objects such as bowls, vases, and pens.
Inlays and marquetry: Decorative accents in furniture and cabinetry.
Pricing/Availability:
Pricing: Marblewood is a popular hardwood and can be moderately priced compared to some exotic woods. Prices may vary depending on quality, dimensions, and availability.
Availability: Moderately available, although supply can fluctuate due to harvesting practices and market demand.
Sustainability:
Sustainability: Marblewood is generally considered a sustainable wood species, and many suppliers adhere to responsible forestry practices. However, it's essential to choose suppliers who prioritize sustainable sourcing and support responsible harvesting.
Comments:
Marblewood's striking dark brown color with distinctive streaks makes it a popular choice for high-end woodworking projects.
Its durability and workability make it suitable for a wide range of applications.
While it's generally considered a sustainable species, it's important to support suppliers who prioritize responsible forestry practices.
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