⚠️ Important Clarification
"Indian Rosewood" can refer to two different woods:
1. Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo) - Also called "North Indian Rosewood" - This is what we use at LavishWood
2. True Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia) - A different, rarer species with darker coloring
This guide discusses True Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia). For information about our primary wood Sheesham, see the Sheesham Wood Guide.
What is True Indian Rosewood?
True Indian Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia) is one of the world's most prestigious hardwoods, revered for centuries in fine furniture making. Its exceptional dimensional stability, stunning color depth, and ability to take an extraordinary polish make it the preferred choice for the most discriminating collectors.
Note: At LavishWood, we primarily work with Sheesham due to its optimal balance of quality, workability, and sustainability. True Indian Rosewood is rarely used due to strict harvesting regulations and conservation efforts.
Physical Properties
Exceptional Density
Janka Hardness: 2,440 lbf (10,850 N)
Nearly twice as hard as Sheesham, Indian Rosewood is one of the densest hardwoods available. This extraordinary hardness translates to unmatched durability and wear resistance.
Distinctive Color
Color Profile: Deep purplish-brown to black
The heartwood displays dramatic color variation from rich purple-brown to nearly black, often with lighter streaks creating stunning visual contrast. This coloring is unique to premium rosewood species.
Grain Character
Pattern: Interlocked with figure
The grain displays beautiful natural patterns—sometimes straight, often interlocked or wavy. This creates depth and visual interest that reveals itself differently as light changes.
Finish Quality
Polish Capability: Exceptional
Indian Rosewood takes the finest polish of any hardwood we work with. The natural oils bring out a deep, glass-like luster that seems to glow from within.
The Rosewood Advantage
Supreme Stability
Indian Rosewood exhibits minimal movement across seasons and climates. Pieces remain perfectly flat and true for centuries, making it ideal for precision inlay work and playing surfaces.
Acoustic Properties
The wood's density creates subtle acoustic qualities—dice have a satisfying sound when rolled, pieces have appropriate weight when moved. These details matter in luxury gaming.
Investment Quality
Rosewood furniture appreciates in value over time. As forests become more protected and supply limited, existing pieces become increasingly valuable.
Heritage Material
For centuries, royalty and nobility chose rosewood for their finest furniture. Commissioning in rosewood connects your piece to this rich heritage of excellence.
Best Applications
Indian Rosewood excels in applications where quality is paramount:
- Signature Chess Tables: The ultimate playing surface for serious collectors
- Backgammon Inlay Work: Provides perfect base for precision marquetry
- Weighted Game Pieces: Density creates ideal weight without excessive size
- Executive Commissions: When only the finest material will do
- Museum-Quality Pieces: Built to last centuries as functional art
Sustainability & Sourcing
We recognize Indian Rosewood as a precious resource requiring responsible stewardship. All our rosewood is sourced from certified sustainable forestry operations with strict environmental standards.
Each piece comes with documentation of legal, sustainable origin. We support reforestation efforts and work only with suppliers committed to long-term forest health.
Caring for Rosewood
Regular Maintenance
Dust regularly with a soft cloth. The natural oils in rosewood help protect the surface, but proper care maintains its luster.
Polishing
Apply high-quality furniture oil 2-4 times per year. This enhances the natural sheen and provides additional protection.
Environment
While extremely stable, rosewood performs best in controlled indoor environments away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature swings.
Professional Care
For significant pieces, consider professional furniture maintenance every few years to ensure optimal condition.
Sheesham vs. Indian Rosewood?
Both woods offer exceptional quality. See detailed side-by-side comparison.
Compare WoodsCommission in Indian Rosewood
Create your masterpiece in the world's finest hardwood.