Compare Sheesham wood against other luxury hardwoods to find the perfect material for your furniture.
Important Note: Sheesham wood and Indian Rosewood are the same wood species (Dalbergia sissoo), just different common names. At LavishWood, we primarily work with Sheesham, and this guide compares it to other premium hardwoods to help you understand why we choose this exceptional material.
When selecting wood for luxury game tables, several premium hardwoods are available. This comparison helps you understand how Sheesham stacks up against other popular choices like Teak, Mango Wood, and Walnut.
| Property | Sheesham (Our Primary Wood) | Teak | Mango Wood | Walnut |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Janka Hardness | 1,390 lbf | 1,155 lbf | 1,070 lbf | 1,010 lbf |
| Color | Golden brown to chocolate | Golden yellow to medium brown | Light blonde to dark brown | Light brown to dark chocolate |
| Grain Pattern | Interlocked, distinctive figure | Straight, occasionally wavy | Interlocked, varied patterns | Straight, often wavy |
| Durability | Excellent - naturally resistant | Excellent - highly weather resistant | Good - moderate durability | Good - moderate resistance |
| Workability | Good - responds well to tools | Good - can be oily | Excellent - easy to work | Excellent - machines well |
| Stability | Very good dimensional stability | Excellent - minimal movement | Moderate - can move seasonally | Good - relatively stable |
| Weight/Density | Medium-heavy (47 lbs/ft³) | Medium (41 lbs/ft³) | Medium (41 lbs/ft³) | Medium (38 lbs/ft³) |
| Natural Oils | Present - aids preservation | High - excellent protection | Low - requires finishing | Moderate oil content |
| Price Point | Premium - excellent value | Very high - luxury tier | Affordable - budget friendly | High - premium hardwood |
| Best For | Game tables, carved furniture | Outdoor furniture, marine use | Contemporary furniture, bowls | Fine furniture, cabinetry |
Advantages:
Best for: Game tables, carved furniture, indoor luxury pieces where hand-detailing is valued
Advantages:
Best for: Outdoor furniture, marine applications, pieces exposed to moisture and weather
Our Choice: For indoor game tables and carved furniture, Sheesham's hardness, workability, and beautiful color make it superior to Teak at a better price point.
Advantages:
Best for: Investment pieces, game tables that will last generations, carved details
Advantages:
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, contemporary designs, pieces that won't see heavy use
Our Choice: Sheesham's superior hardness and durability make it worth the premium for furniture that will be used daily and passed down through generations.
Advantages:
Best for: Game tables, carved pedestals, furniture that will see heavy use
Advantages:
Best for: Fine cabinetry, gunstocks, veneers, contemporary minimalist designs
Our Choice: For game tables that need to withstand dice rolls, chess pieces, and daily handling, Sheesham's superior hardness makes it the better choice.
At LavishWood, we've worked with many premium hardwoods over the years. After extensive testing and hundreds of commissioned pieces, we've chosen Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo) as our primary wood for several compelling reasons:
At 1,390 lbf on the Janka scale, Sheesham is harder than Teak, Mango, and Walnut. This means game tables resist dents from chess pieces, dice, and daily use while remaining workable for intricate hand-carving.
The golden-brown to chocolate color range appeals to traditional and contemporary tastes. The grain patterns are distinctive without being overwhelming, allowing the craftsmanship to shine.
Sheesham offers premium hardwood qualities at a more accessible price point than exotic imports, without compromising on durability or beauty.
The density provides weight without excessive bulk. The smooth finish allows pieces to glide perfectly. The hardness ensures playing surfaces remain flat and true for generations.
Sheesham grows relatively quickly compared to slow-growing exotics, making it a more sustainable choice when sourced from responsibly managed forests.
Sheesham furniture from centuries ago still exists in excellent condition. Its natural resistance to termites, decay, and dimensional changes ensures pieces last generations.
Our team can help you understand why Sheesham is the ideal choice for luxury game tables.