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Bubinga
Specification Details
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Guibourtia demeusei, Guibourtia tessmannii, Guibourtia pellegriniana |
| Common Name | Bubinga |
| Hardness (Janka) | 2,410 lbf |
| Color | Pinkish-red to reddish-brown heartwood with darker veining; pale sapwood |
| Grain | Straight to interlocked; often figured |
| Texture | Fine to medium |
| Natural Luster | Medium to high |
| Durability | Moderately durable |
| Typical Uses | Furniture, veneers, flooring, musical instruments |
Workability
Bubinga is moderately difficult to work due to its high density and hardness. Sharp tools are essential, and carbide cutters are recommended for machining. It turns and polishes exceptionally well, producing a high-quality finish. Pre-drilling is advised for fasteners, and proper dust extraction and PPE are recommended.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, decorative veneers, flooring, tabletops, cabinetry, musical instruments, and turned objects.
What Makes Bubinga Unique
Bubinga is renowned for its rich coloration and dramatic figure, including waterfall, pommele, and quilted patterns. Its exceptional strength and ability to take a high polish make it a premium choice for luxury furniture and decorative applications.
Why Choose Bubinga
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Striking Figure and Color: One of the most visually impressive hardwoods
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High Strength and Hardness: Excellent for demanding applications
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Excellent Finishing Qualities: Polishes to a smooth, glossy surface
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Prestige Material: Widely used in luxury furniture and instruments
Why You Might Not Choose Bubinga
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Difficult Workability: Very hard and dense
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Heavy Weight: Less suitable where weight is a concern
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Moderate Durability: Not ideal for exterior use
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Health Sensitivity: Dust may cause irritation; proper PPE recommended
Climate Performance & Acclimation
Bubinga performs best in stable interior environments. Proper acclimation is essential due to its density, helping to minimize movement and checking.
Ideal for High-End Interior Projects
Its beauty and strength make Bubinga ideal for statement furniture, veneers, flooring, and musical instruments.
Color and Grain Stability
Bubinga’s reddish tones darken slightly over time, developing a deep, rich patina. Clear finishes enhance figure and depth while protecting the surface.
Popular Applications
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Luxury furniture and cabinetry
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Decorative veneers and paneling
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Hardwood flooring
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Musical instruments (especially guitar backs and sides)
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Turned and carved objects
Current Design Trends Featuring Bubinga
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Statement furniture and feature pieces
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Luxury interiors and bespoke cabinetry
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High-gloss and natural oil finishes
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Architectural veneers and accent panels
Other Species
