rosewood

Rosewood refers to several tropical hardwoods in the genus Dalbergia, and to a lesser extent to other genera that share similar appearance and aroma. The wood is typically dense, hard, oily, and takes a high polish. Heartwood color ranges from light brown to deep reddish- to purplish-brown, often with darker grain patterns. When freshly cut, some species emit a characteristic rose-like scent.

Two of the best-known rosewoods are Brazilian rosewood, Dalbergia nigra, and East Indian rosewood, Dalbergia latifolia. Brazilian rosewood was historically favored for fine furniture and musical instruments but is now heavily restricted; East Indian rosewood remains highly valued for furniture and guitar fingerboards. Many other Dalbergia species across Africa, Asia, and the Americas are harvested as rosewood, and the term can be applied to some wood marketed under similar names. The wood's density and rigidity, along with its attractive figure, contribute to its desirability for veneers, turned items, and inlay work.

Because of overexploitation and habitat loss, several rosewood species are listed under CITES with restricted trade. Export permits and proof of sustainable harvest are typically required. Supply is currently limited and often sourced from plantations or certified forests. The term rosewood is also used in some markets for woods outside the Dalbergia genus, which can mislead consumers and complicate conservation efforts.