Coromandel wood, also known as Macassar ebony, is valuable and rare. It comes from several species of trees in the Diospyros genus. The wood is known for its beautiful dark brown-to-black color. It also has a delicate texture and high sheen when polished. It is highly prized for use in high-end furniture, musical instruments, decorative items, and luxury goods.
Coromandel wood is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and India. The name “Coromandel” is believed to have originated from the Coromandel Coast in southeastern India. The wood was once exported from there. Overharvesting and habitat loss have made Coromandel wood increasingly rare and expensive, leading to conservation concerns.
Due to its rarity, Coromandel wood is often substituted with other dark woods. Restrictions on harvest and trade also contribute to substitutions with African blackwood or other types of ebony.
