Cocobolo (Dalbergia retusa) is a tropical Central American rosewood prized for its spectacular color range from vivid orange and red to dark purple and black and its exceptional hardness and natural oils. It is used for knife handles, gunstocks, musical instruments, high-end pens, and luxury woodturning.

Cocobolo displays one of the most dramatic and varied color palettes of any wood, ranging from vivid red, orange, and yellow to deep purple, brown, and black, all often present in a single board. Freshly cut Cocobolo is brightest; the colors mature and deepen with age, and finishing brings out extraordinary depth and chatoyance.

Yes, Cocobolo is a member of the Dalbergia genus, the true rosewoods, native to Central America — primarily Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. It is closely related to Indian Rosewood and Brazilian Rosewood. All Dalbergia species are regulated under CITES Appendix II, meaning international trade requires documentation.

Yes, Cocobolo is regulated under CITES Appendix II as part of the genus Dalbergia, which includes all rosewoods globally. This means international trade requires CITES export and import permits.

Cocobolo has a Janka hardness of 1,136 lbf (5,050 N) on average, though this can vary significantly. Its exceptional natural oil content adds to its functional durability, making it highly resistant to moisture, rot, and general wear despite its moderate Janka rating.

Cocobolo is arguably the most prized wood for custom knife handles. Its hardness, exceptional oil content (which naturally resists moisture and blood), striking colors, and smooth finish make it ideal. It can be polished to a near-glass surface without any finish, and its durability ensures handles last a lifetime.

Yes, Cocobolo is well-known for causing allergic reactions in some individuals. Its dust and oils can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory reactions. Always use appropriate PPE including a respirator, gloves, and eye protection when working with Cocobolo. Good dust collection and shop ventilation are essential.

Cocobolo's extremely high natural oil content makes finishing challenging, as oils interfere with adhesion. The surface must be cleaned with acetone or denatured alcohol before applying any finish. CA (cyanoacrylate) glue is popular for pen and handle work. Oil-based finishes and friction polish also work well after proper surface preparation.

Cocobolo is expensive due to its limited geographic range, CITES trade restrictions, high demand from knife makers, instrument builders, and luxury woodworkers, and its dramatic appearance. Wide, clear boards with exceptional figure command particularly high prices in the specialty lumber market.

Yes, Cocobolo is used in musical instruments including guitar fretboards, backs, sides, and woodwind instruments. It offers excellent tonal properties similar to other rosewoods warm, rich, and resonant combined with a spectacular appearance. Its CITES-regulated status has led some builders to seek alternatives for commercial production.