Common Name(s): Gaboon Ebony, African Ebony, Nigerian Ebony, Cameroon Ebony Scientific Name: Diospyros crassiflora Distribution: Equatorial West Africa Tree Size: 50-60 ft (15-18 m) tall, 2 ft (.6 m) trunk diameter Average Dried Weight: 71 lbs/ft3 (1,135 kg/m3) Basic Specific Gravity: .90 Hardness: 3,220 lbf (14,320 N) Color/Appearance: Heartwood is usually jet-black, with little to no variation or visible grain. Occasionally dark brown or grayish-brown streaks may be present. Grain/Pore: Very fine pores and fine texture. The grain is usually straight but can also be interlocked. Durability: Ebony is rated as being very durable, with good resistance to termites and other insects. Workability: Due to the high oil content found in this wood, it can occasionally cause problems with gluing. Can be difficult to work due to its extremely high density. Has a dulling effect on cutters. Tearout may occur on pieces that have interlocked or irregular grain. Takes finishes well, and finishes to a high luster. Gaboon Ebony is among the most expensive of all available lumbers: usually about two to three times more expensive than most species of Rosewood. The small size of the tree, and its high demand for ornamental work may contribute to its seemingly outlandish price.