Content Menu
● Introduction to Ovangkol Wood
● Botanical and Geographic Origins
● Physical and Mechanical Properties
>> Stability
● Appearance and Grain Patterns
● Common Uses of Ovangkol Wood
● Ovangkol in Musical Instruments
● Sustainability and Environmental Impact
>> Sustainable Forestry Practices
● Advantages and Disadvantages of Ovangkol
● Comparison with Other Popular Hardwoods
● Care and Maintenance of Ovangkol Products
● FAQ
>> 1. What is the botanical name of ovangkol wood?
>> 2. Is ovangkol a sustainable wood choice?
>> 3. What are the main uses of ovangkol wood?
>> 4. How does ovangkol compare to rosewood in guitars?
>> 5. Are there any special considerations when working with ovangkol?
Ovangkol wood, known for its striking appearance and versatile characteristics, has become a popular choice in woodworking, furniture making, and musical instrument construction. This comprehensive article explores the origins, properties, uses, sustainability, and unique appeal of ovangkol, providing an in-depth resource for anyone interested in this remarkable hardwood.
Ovangkol, botanically known as *Guibourtia ehie*, is a tropical hardwood renowned for its beauty, durability, and versatility. Sometimes referred to as shedua, amazique, or Mozambique, ovangkol is especially valued in the woodworking and music industries for its distinctive coloration, grain, and acoustic properties[1][4][7]. Its increasing popularity is due in part to its sustainable sourcing and suitability as an alternative to more endangered hardwoods.
Ovangkol trees are native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa, particularly countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, and Congo[3][4][7]. The tree itself is medium to large in size, though logs with a diameter greater than three feet are considered rare[7]. The wood is harvested from legal and sustainable sources, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers[2][4].
Ovangkol is a heavy and dense wood, with a typical density ranging from 780 to 825 kg/m³[5]. It falls into durability class 2, meaning it is highly resistant to termites, fungi, and other forms of biological attack[3]. Mechanically, ovangkol is classified as medium in all strength properties except for steam-bending, where it performs poorly[2].
One of the key advantages of ovangkol is its dimensional stability and resistance to warping, making it suitable for applications requiring longevity and structural integrity[3].
Ovangkol's heartwood ranges from yellowish-brown to chocolate-brown, often featuring dramatic gray to almost black stripes[1][2][3]. The sapwood is a pale yellow and is clearly demarcated from the heartwood, typically about 4 inches thick[1][2].
The grain is usually straight to slightly interlocked, with a medium to coarse texture and a moderate natural luster[1][3]. Some pieces display curly or mottled figuring, adding to the wood's visual interest[1][2]. These characteristics make ovangkol highly desirable for decorative veneers and visible surfaces.
Ovangkol is generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it contains silica, which can dull cutting edges more quickly than some other woods[1][5]. When the grain is interlocked or figured, planing and machining can cause tear-out, so sharp tools and careful technique are recommended[1]. The wood glues, screws, and nails well, and it can be brought to a high-polished finish[2][5].
Freshly cut ovangkol emits a strong, unpleasant odor, which dissipates once the wood is dry[1]. There are no significant health risks associated with ovangkol beyond standard wood dust precautions[1].
Ovangkol's combination of beauty, durability, and workability lends itself to a wide array of applications, including:
- Furniture making (tables, chairs, cabinets)
- Flooring and staircases
- Decorative veneers
- Turned objects and carvings
- Architectural millwork[2][3][7]
Its attractive appearance and physical properties ensure its continued popularity among woodworkers and designers.
One of the most celebrated uses of ovangkol is in the construction of musical instruments, particularly acoustic guitars. Guitar manufacturers have increasingly turned to ovangkol as a sustainable alternative to rosewood, which faces supply and environmental challenges[4][5][6].
Ovangkol offers a well-rounded tone, with warmth and depth similar to rosewood, but with slightly brighter highs reminiscent of maple[4][6][8]. It provides excellent resonance, clarity, and sustain, making it a favorite for guitar backs and sides[4][6][8].
- Acoustic guitar backs and sides
- Fretboards (less common, but used)
- Other stringed instruments (e.g., ukuleles, basses)
- Percussion instruments
Major guitar brands such as Taylor, Lowden, and Avalon have embraced ovangkol for its tonal qualities, affordability, and sustainability[6].
Ovangkol is not listed in the CITES Appendices, which regulate trade in endangered species, and is classified by the IUCN as a species of least concern[1][4]. This status, combined with responsible harvesting practices, makes ovangkol a sustainable choice for consumers and manufacturers seeking to minimize environmental impact[4][5].
Many suppliers source ovangkol from legal, well-managed forests, ensuring long-term viability and minimal ecological disruption[2][4]. This commitment to sustainability has contributed to ovangkol's growing popularity as a substitute for more threatened hardwoods.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Attractive appearance with unique figuring | Contains silica, which can dull tools |
| Well-rounded tonal properties | Interlocked grain may cause tear-out |
| High durability and stability | Heavy compared to some alternatives |
| Resistant to insects and fungi | Poor steam-bending properties |
| Sustainable and widely available | Strong odor when freshly cut (temporary) |
| More affordable than many exotic hardwoods | Less hard than some comparable woods |
Ovangkol's strengths make it suitable for a wide variety of uses, though woodworkers should be mindful of its workability challenges and weight[1][2][4][5].
| Feature | Ovangkol | Rosewood | Maple |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Yellow-brown to dark brown with black/grey streaks | Dark brown with purplish hues | Pale cream to light brown |
| Grain | Straight to interlocked | Straight, sometimes wavy | Straight, fine |
| Density | 780–825 kg/m³ | 800–900 kg/m³ | 630–750 kg/m³ |
| Tonal Qualities | Warm, deep, bright highs | Warm, deep, rich overtones | Bright, clear, articulate |
| Workability | Easy, can dull tools | Moderate, can be oily | Very easy |
| Sustainability | Abundant, not CITES | Often restricted (CITES) | Abundant, sustainable |
| Price | Moderate | High | Moderate |
Ovangkol stands out as a sustainable and affordable alternative to rosewood, offering similar tonal and visual appeal[4][5][8].
To ensure longevity and maintain the beauty of ovangkol wood products:
- Regular Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust.
- Avoid Excess Moisture: Wipe up spills promptly and avoid prolonged exposure to water.
- Use Appropriate Cleaners: For finished surfaces, use a wood-safe cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Protect from Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure can cause fading or discoloration.
- Humidity Control: Maintain stable indoor humidity to prevent warping or cracking, especially for musical instruments.
Proper care will preserve ovangkol's appearance and performance for years to come.
Ovangkol wood, with its captivating appearance, robust physical properties, and sustainable sourcing, is a standout choice for a wide range of applications. From fine furniture and flooring to the resonant backs and sides of acoustic guitars, ovangkol delivers both beauty and functionality. Its well-rounded tonal profile, affordability, and environmental credentials make it a compelling alternative to more traditional, and often endangered, hardwoods. As consumer demand for sustainable materials grows, ovangkol is poised to play an increasingly important role in woodworking and instrument making worldwide.
The botanical name of ovangkol is *Guibourtia ehie*. It is also known by other trade names such as shedua, amazique, and Mozambique[1][4][7].
Yes, ovangkol is considered sustainable. It is not listed in the CITES Appendices and is classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN. Many suppliers source it from legal and responsibly managed forests[1][4][5].
Ovangkol is used for furniture, flooring, cabinetry, veneers, turned objects, and especially in the construction of musical instruments like acoustic guitars[2][3][4][5].
Ovangkol offers a tonal profile similar to rosewood, with warmth and depth, but with slightly brighter highs. It is also more sustainable and generally more affordable than rosewood[4][6][8].
Ovangkol contains silica, which can dull cutting tools. Interlocked or figured grain may cause tear-out during machining, so sharp tools and careful technique are recommended. The wood emits a strong odor when freshly cut, but this disappears as it dries[1][5].
[1] https://www.wood-database.com/ovangkol/
[2] https://www.anyonewood.com/ovangkol/
[3] https://www.denderwood.com/en/wood-types/ovangkol/
[4] https://findmyguitar.com/blog/materials/ovangkol/
[5] https://maderasbarber.com/tonewood/en/1538-ovangkol
[6] https://maderasbarber.com/tonewood/en/772-ovangkol
[7] https://www.hearnehardwoods.com/shedua-lumber-lumber-2/
[8] https://www.sweetwater.com/insync/ovangkol/
[9] https://www.zanusolegno.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Ovangkol-Material-Data-Sheet-Zanusolegno.pdf
[10] https://www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/acoustic/features/woods/body-woods/ovangkol
