Views: 222 Author: Rebecca Publish Time: 2025-04-21 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● Introduction to Ovangkol Wood
● The Purpose and Structure of Ovangkol Wood Databases
● Evaluating the Accuracy of Ovangkol Wood Database Details
>> Physical and Mechanical Properties
>> Allergies/Toxicity and Odor
>> Pricing, Availability, and Sustainability
● Comparing Database Data with Real-World Experience
>> Instrument Makers' Perspective
>> Furniture and Flooring Applications
>> User Feedback and Field Variability
● Common Misconceptions and Data Gaps
● The Role of Sustainability and Certification Data
● How to Use Ovangkol Wood Database Information Effectively
● FAQ
>> 1. What is the scientific name of ovangkol, and are there any common synonyms?
>> 2. How does ovangkol compare to rosewood in terms of tone and workability for guitars?
>> 3. Is ovangkol considered a sustainable and legal wood species?
>> 4. What are the main challenges when working with ovangkol wood?
>> 5. How reliable are ovangkol wood databases for making purchasing or design decisions?
Ovangkol wood, known scientifically as Guibourtia ehie, has become a staple in woodworking, furniture making, and instrument construction, particularly for its unique tonal and aesthetic properties. As the demand for reliable information grows, so does the reliance on comprehensive resources like the ovangkol wood database. But how accurate are the details in these databases? This article delves deep into the reliability, comprehensiveness, and real-world applicability of the information found in ovangkol wood databases, drawing on expert sources, user experiences, and scientific data.
Ovangkol, also known by names such as shedua, amazique, and mozambique, is a tropical hardwood native to West and Central Africa, particularly Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Gabon, and Congo[2][4]. Its heartwood ranges from yellowish to reddish brown, often adorned with darker streaks or stripes, and the sapwood is distinctly pale yellow[1][5]. Ovangkol is prized for its:
- Attractive appearance with unique figuring
- Good workability (though it contains silica, which can dull tools)
- Moderate durability and resistance to insects and fungi
- Versatile applications, including furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and musical instruments[1][2][4]
Given its increasing popularity, especially as a sustainable alternative to rosewood in guitar making, the need for accurate, accessible information has never been greater[2].
Ovangkol wood databases are specialized repositories that compile technical, aesthetic, and practical information about the species. The most reputable databases, such as The Wood Database, aim to provide:
- Botanical and trade names
- Geographic distribution
- Physical and mechanical properties (density, hardness, strength)
- Workability and finishing notes
- Durability and resistance ratings
- Typical uses and market availability
- Sustainability and legal status[1][3][4]
These databases serve woodworkers, luthiers, manufacturers, and hobbyists, offering a centralized source for decision-making and comparison with other timbers.
Most ovangkol wood databases agree on the fundamental properties, such as density (780–825 kg/m³), Janka hardness (~1,330 lbf), and moderate durability[1][5][6]. These figures are supported by both scientific testing and field experience, indicating a high degree of accuracy.
- Color/Appearance: Databases consistently describe ovangkol as varying from yellowish to reddish brown, with darker streaks and a clearly demarcated pale sapwood[1][5]. This matches real-world observations and photographic evidence.
- Grain/Texture: The grain is typically straight to slightly interlocked, with a medium to coarse texture and moderate natural luster[1][5]. Users and experts confirm these tactile and visual qualities.
- Endgrain/Structure: Detailed anatomical descriptions, such as diffuse-porous structure, large pores, and specific parenchyma patterns, are drawn from microscopic analysis and are reliably reported across reputable databases[1].
- Workability: Ovangkol is generally easy to work, though the presence of silica can dull tools prematurely. Interlocked grain can cause tearout, especially during planing and machining, but the wood turns, glues, and finishes well[1][5][6]. These notes are echoed by woodworkers and luthiers in forums and professional reviews.
- Durability: Rated as moderately durable, ovangkol resists insect attack and fungal decay reasonably well, though not as robustly as some other tropical hardwoods[1][4]. This aligns with laboratory tests and field reports.
- Allergies/Toxicity: Databases note no unusual health risks beyond standard wood dust sensitivities, which is consistent with occupational health data[1].
- Odor: A strong, unpleasant odor when wet is reported, which dissipates upon drying[1]. This is corroborated by firsthand user experiences.
- Pricing/Availability: Ovangkol is widely available in both lumber and veneer forms. Unfigured wood is mid-priced among imported hardwoods, while figured variants command higher prices[1][2]. This is reflected in market listings and supplier catalogs.
- Sustainability: Ovangkol is not listed in the CITES Appendices and is considered a species of least concern by the IUCN[1][2]. Databases accurately reflect its current sustainable status, though they caution that market and environmental changes could affect this in the future.
Ovangkol has gained traction as a tonewood for acoustic guitars, often compared to rosewood for its tonal warmth, clarity, and resonance[2][5][6]. Guitar manufacturers and players report that the wood's tonal characteristics—strong lows, warm mids, and bright highs—match database descriptions[2]. Its moderate hardness and stability make it suitable for backs, sides, and occasionally necks and fretboards.
Cabinetmakers and flooring specialists confirm the wood's attractive appearance, stability, and resistance to warping, as stated in most databases[3][4]. Its moderate movement in service and ease of finishing are also borne out in practice, though some caution is advised during kiln drying to prevent deformation[3][5].
While databases provide average values and general characteristics, users note that individual boards can vary in color, grain, and workability. Factors such as origin, growth conditions, and processing methods can introduce variability not always captured in database summaries. Nonetheless, the core data remains highly reliable for most practical purposes.
Despite the overall accuracy, some misconceptions and gaps persist:
- Confusion over Names: Ovangkol, shedua, amazique, and mozambique all refer to *Guibourtia ehie*, but regional and trade naming can cause confusion. Databases that clearly list synonyms help mitigate this issue[1][2].
- Overgeneralization: Some users assume all ovangkol is identical, but natural variation means that color, figure, and workability can differ between trees and regions[3][5].
- Incomplete Data on Finishing and Maintenance: While databases mention that ovangkol finishes well, they often lack detailed guidance on optimal finishing products or maintenance routines, which are important for long-term performance[2].
Sustainability is a growing concern for wood users. Ovangkol wood databases typically report that the species is not endangered and is widely available from legal, sustainable sources[1][2][3]. However, not all databases provide detailed information on certification schemes (e.g., FSC), harvest practices, or traceability. Users seeking eco-certified ovangkol should consult both databases and supplier documentation.
To maximize the value of ovangkol wood database information:
- Cross-reference multiple databases for corroboration, especially regarding mechanical properties and workability.
- Consult user reviews and expert forums for practical insights and troubleshooting tips.
- Verify sustainability claims with suppliers, especially for large or high-value projects.
- Account for natural variability by inspecting wood samples before purchase.
The details found in reputable ovangkol wood databases are highly accurate and reliable for most practical applications. Physical, mechanical, and aesthetic properties are well-documented and supported by both scientific analysis and real-world experience. While some variability exists due to natural factors and processing methods, the core data—such as density, hardness, color, and workability—remains consistent across sources. Users should be mindful of potential gaps in finishing advice and sustainability certification, but overall, the ovangkol wood database is an indispensable tool for woodworkers, luthiers, and manufacturers seeking dependable information.
Ovangkol's scientific name is *Guibourtia ehie*. Common synonyms include shedua, amazique, mozambique, and amazoué. These names may be used interchangeably in different regions and industries, but they all refer to the same species[1][2].
Ovangkol is often chosen as a sustainable alternative to rosewood. It offers a well-rounded tone with strong lows, warm mids, and highs that are slightly brighter than rosewood. In terms of workability, ovangkol is generally easy to work but can dull tools due to its silica content. It is slightly less hard than rosewood but more durable than mahogany[2][5][6].
Yes, ovangkol is widely regarded as sustainable and is not listed in the CITES Appendices. It is classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN. However, users should still verify the legality and certification of their wood sources, especially for large projects or international trade[1][2][3].
The primary challenges include the potential for tool dulling due to silica content and the risk of tearout when planing interlocked or figured grain. Ovangkol also has moderate movement in service and can be challenging to kiln-dry without deformation. Nonetheless, it glues, turns, and finishes well[1][3][5].
Ovangkol wood databases are highly reliable for most technical and practical information, including physical properties, workability, and typical uses. However, users should supplement database research with supplier verification, inspection of wood samples, and consideration of natural variability to ensure the best outcomes[1][3][4].
[1] https://www.wood-database.com/ovangkol/
[2] https://findmyguitar.com/blog/materials/ovangkol/
[3] https://www.anyonewood.com/ovangkol/
[4] https://www.denderwood.com/en/wood-types/ovangkol/
[5] https://maderasbarber.com/tonewood/en/917-ovangkol
[6] https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=345689
[7] https://www.bois-exotique.com/product/ovangkol-block/
[8] https://tonewooddatasource.weebly.com/wood-details-c-g.html
[9] https://www.wood-database.com/book/
[10] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844023024258
[11] https://findmyguitar.com/blog/materials/ovangkol/
[12] https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/documnts/fplgtr/fplgtr190/chapter_05.pdf
[13] https://www.woodwiseuk.co.uk/product/figured-ovangkol-amazique-guitar-drop-top-2-pieces-555x360x10-mm/
[14] https://www.surreytimbers.co.uk/product/ovangkol-timber-12-22/
[15] https://www.etsy.com/listing/886827823/ovangkol-wood-veneer-sheets-30x13cm-2
[16] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guibourtia_ehie
[17] https://www.wood-database.com
[18] https://www.wooduchoose.com/material_info.cfm?mat=132
[19] https://www.etsy.com/hk-en/listing/872897978/ovangkol-wood-veneer-sheets-30x13cm-2
[20] http://www.itto.int/files/user/cites/cameroon/Background%20information-Bubinga%20and%20Weng%C3%A9%20in%20Africa.pdf
[21] https://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/threads/119535-Ovangkol-wood-used-as-a-fretboard
[22] https://www.wood-database.com/wood-articles/hardwood-anatomy/
[23] https://forum.warwickforum.com/threads/ovangkol-vs-bubinga-what-is-the-tonal-difference-for-neck-wood.13625/
[24] https://www.aawforum.org/community/threads/anyone-here-turned-some-ovangkol.12661/
[25] https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=595434
[26] https://maderasbarber.com/tonewood/en/628-ovangkol
[27] https://www.harmonycentral.com/forums/topic/1140423-ovangkol-what-do-you-think-of-that-wood/
[28] https://umgf.com/ovangkol-t3091.html
[29] https://www.wood-database.com/worlds-strongest-woods/
[30] https://tonewooddatasource.weebly.com/wood-details-n-q.html
[31] https://lnx.amazingwood.eu/en/57-ovangkol
[32] https://www.guitarkind.com/ovangkol-guitars/
[33] https://maderasbarber.com/tonewood/en/724-ovangkol
[34] https://www.gardenguides.com/info_8345197_ovangkol-wood.html
[35] https://tonewooddatasource.weebly.com/wood-details-m.html
[36] https://woodyworks.shop/en/products/ovangkol
