Katalox (Swartzia cubensis), also called Mexican Royal Ebony or Black Ebony, is a dense Central American hardwood with extremely dark purplish-brown to nearly black heartwood. It is used as an ebony substitute for guitar fretboards, knife handles, pen blanks, chess pieces, and high-end decorative turning.

No. Katalox is not a true ebony (Diospyros species), but it closely resembles ebony in color and density.

Katalox has a Janka hardness of approximately 3,660 lbf (16,260 N), making it one of the hardest commercially available hardwoods in the world, comparable to African Blackwood and significantly harder than Ebony. This extreme hardness makes it exceptionally durable but very challenging to work with standard tooling.

Katalox heartwood is a very dark purplish-brown to nearly jet black, often with subtle reddish or purplish undertones. The sapwood is pale white to yellowish.

Yes. Katalox is an excellent guitar fretboard material and one of the most recommended ebony substitutes.

Katalox (Swartzia cubensis) is native to Mexico (primarily the Yucatan Peninsula), Guatemala, Belize, and other parts of Central America.

Katalox is very difficult to work due to its extreme hardness and density.

Katalox's high oil content and density make finishing challenging. The surface must be degreased with acetone before any finish application to make it adhere.

Katalox is used for guitar fretboards and bridges, knife handles, pen blanks, chess pieces, turned objects, and small luxury decorative items.