Lignum Vitae
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DESCRIPTION & USES: One of the hardest & heaviest woods (three times as hard as oak), most commonly used for mallet heads, bearings & rollers. Because of its durability & natural lubricants, it is the preferred wood for propeller bushings & other underwater applications. Generally grows to a diameter of about 12", although historically, trees in the 18" - 30" range have been known. Reddish brown when freshly cut, with pale yellow sapwood. As it oxidizes, the color turns to a deep green, often with black details. The grain is highly interlocked, making it difficult to work with edge tools, but it machines well & takes a high polish. It is a remarkably good wood for turning. Average weight runs 75 - 80 lbs per cubic foot.
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Central America, Southern Mexico.
BOTANICAL NAME: Guaiacum officinale
JANKA HARDNESS: 4500
