Trade Names
Marfim, Guatambu, Bahia Satinwood
Similar Woods
Satinwood
Origin
South America
Range
Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. In the southern part of Brazil around Mato Grosso. The tree can reach a height of 20 - 40 m with a diametre between 40 - 70 cm. The slightly figured wood resembles Satinwood and is difficult to find.
Uses
The non-figured wood is frequently used for exclusive furniture production in South America. In the figured form, the figure is similar to the Satinwood figure, the wood is used for interior work and for high quality furniture. Hardly known in Europe; used as substitute for the extremely expensive Satinwood.
Properties
Cream-coloured, relatively uniform wood without strong characteristics in structure. Only in the rare figured form decorative and suitable for interior design. The figure can vary greatly. From very fine – bee’s wing – to strongly prominent.
Machining
Marfim can easily be machined with all tools.
Seasoning
Slow drying is recommended as the wood is highly prone to warping and checking.
Finishing
No difficulties.
Jointing
No difficulties.