Marblewood

Marmaroxylon racemosum

Marblewood (Marmaroxylon racemosum) is a dense, exotic hardwood known for its striking appearance. It features a creamy to yellow-brown background with dramatic dark brown to black veining, resembling marble hence the name.


Trade Name: Marblewood

Scientific Name: Marmaroxylon racemosum

Common Names: Marblewood, Bois Serpent, Angelim Rajado, マーブルウッド, 大理石木, Gevlamde Bostamarinde, Serpentholz, Marmorholz

Growing Areas: Marblewood trees grow predominantly in the tropical regions of northern South America, particularly in countries such as Suriname and French Guyana.

Growing Areas and Distribution: Native to tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname.


Tree Size:

  • Height: Typically reaches 100-130 feet (30-40 meters).

  • Diameter: Trunk diameter can range from 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters).

Physical Properties:

  • Average Dried Weight: 56 lbs/ft³ (900 kg/m³) - Moderately dense.

  • Janka Hardness: 2,400 lbf (10,700 N) - Moderately hard.

  • Modulus of Rupture: 18,000 psi (124 MPa) - Good bending strength.

  • Elastic Modulus: 2,200,000 psi (15.2 GPa) - Moderately stiff.

  • Shrinkage: Moderate shrinkage, similar to other hardwoods.


Appearance and Working Properties:

  • Color/Appearance: Heartwood is a rich, deep brown color with distinctive dark brown or black streaks that resemble marble, hence the name. Sapwood is pale yellow.

  • Grain/Texture: Fine and even texture with a natural luster. Grain is typically straight but can be slightly interlocked.

  • Rot Resistance: Rated as moderately durable; resistant to decay and insect attack.

  • Workability: Easy to work with sharp tools. Takes a beautiful finish.

  • Odor: No characteristic odor.

  • Allergies/Toxicity: No known allergies or toxicity associated with Marblewood.


Uses and Applications:

  • Cabinetry and furniture: High-end furniture, countertops, and cabinetry.

  • Musical instruments: Guitar fretboards, violin bows, and other stringed instruments.

  • Fine woodworking: Bowls, pens, jewelry, and other decorative items.

  • Turning: Turned objects such as bowls, vases, and pens.

  • Inlays and marquetry: Decorative accents in furniture and cabinetry.


Pricing/Availability:

  • Pricing: Marblewood is a popular hardwood and can be moderately priced compared to some exotic woods. Prices may vary depending on quality, dimensions, and availability.

  • Availability: Moderately available, although supply can fluctuate due to harvesting practices and market demand.

Sustainability:

  • Sustainability: Marblewood is generally considered a sustainable wood species, and many suppliers adhere to responsible forestry practices. However, it's essential to choose suppliers who prioritize sustainable sourcing and support responsible harvesting.


Ready to add Marblewood to your next project?

Contact us today:

  • Visit our website: Browse our selection of Marblewood lumber and turning blanks.

  • Email us: info@exoticwoodsource.com for inquiries and orders.

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