Marblewood
Zygia racemosa (Marmaroxylon racemosum)
Marblewood is one of the most visually striking exotic hardwoods available, featuring dramatic dark brown to black veining over a golden-yellow to tan background that creates patterns resembling marble stone. This exceptionally hard and dense South American wood is prized for its unique beauty and durability, making it ideal for turned objects, inlay work, fine furniture accents, and specialty items where dramatic visual impact is desired.
Janka Hardness
2710 lbf
Very hard
Density
65 lbs/ft³
Very dense
Shrinkage
Moderate (8.0% tangential, 5.2% radial)
Moderate
Appearance
Color: Golden-yellow to tan background with dramatic dark brown to black irregular veining creating marble-like patterns. Each piece is unique.
Grain: Straight to irregular grain with fine to medium texture. Spectacular dark veining creates marble-like patterns.
Key Characteristics
- •Spectacular marble-like patterns
- •Extremely hard and dense
- •Each piece is unique
- •Polishes to high sheen
- •Good natural durability
- •Dense enough to sink in water
Common Applications
Maintenance
For interior and decorative use. Oil or lacquer finish enhances dramatic patterns. Extremely durable surface resists wear.
Advantages
- +One of the most dramatic-looking woods
- +Exceptional hardness and durability
- +Each piece has unique patterning
- +Polishes to mirror-like finish
- +Good for small specialty items
- +Conversation-starting appearance
Considerations
- •Very expensive and limited supply
- •Extremely hard to work
- •Only available in smaller dimensions
- •Can be brittle
- •Dulls tools quickly
- •Dark veining can be unpredictable