Why is Brazilian rosewood so expensive?

Why is Brazilian rosewood so expensive?

Rosewood is one of the most exploited species of trees around the world, as it is used in making luxurious furniture, musical instruments, as well as producing rosewood oil, bringing its species to the brink of extinction. This scarcity of rosewood resources has led to prices rise, with no signs of slowing down.

Can you still buy Brazilian rosewood?

Today, Brazilian rosewood can only be obtained and used for guitars (or anything, really) if it was harvested and exported prior to the CITES ban, or harvested from trees that have fallen naturally – and is accompanied with a certificate of provenance in both cases.

Why is rosewood more expensive than mahogany?

Rosewood is more expensive than mahogany wood because it is rarer. This is because rosewood produces a very distinctive and resonant sound that may become overpowering on an already loud and large guitar. However, mahogany produces a softer sound that is perfect for bigger-bodied instruments.

Where does Brazilian rosewood come from?

D. nigra, commonly known as Brazilian rosewood, is native to the Atlantic coast of Brazil. It is one of the most highly valued hardwoods, well-known for its durability, pest resistance, beauty, acoustic properties, and distinct rose scent.

Why is Brazilian rosewood endangered?

Brazilian rosewood is threatened by illegal logging and habitat loss. In 1992, in response to the threat of logging, Brazilian rosewood became one of the first ever tree species to be listed on Appendix 1 of CITES, prohibiting international trade in the timber or other products from this species.

When did Gibson use Brazilian rosewood?

Brazilian rosewood was a common wood for fingerboards and partly also for bodies and bridges of high quality instruments, produced especially in the U.S. until about 1965 (Fender,Gibson) sometimes until 1969 (Martin) .

Is Jacaranda the same as Brazilian rosewood?

Brazilian rosewood, also called jacaranda, is perhaps one of the most beautiful woods in the world. The tree is classified as Dalbergia nigra.

Is Brazilian rosewood rare?

Brazilian rosewood is highly desirable, exceptionally rare and heavily regulated. Brazilian rosewood is an endangered species and has been illegal to harvest since 1964. Instruments are still being made from Brazilian, due to a very limited supply of Brazilian that was harvested prior to the 1964 ban.

Which is heavier rosewood or mahogany?

Rosewood is much denser/harder and stronger than mahogany. This is why it is also used a lot for bridges and fingerboards.

When did Brazilian rosewood become endangered?

The restrictions under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora — commonly referred to as CITES — went into effect in 2017, after strong demand for high-end rosewood furniture in China led to conservation worries and violence in areas that produce the wood.

Is selling Brazilian rosewood illegal?

Brazilian rosewood plants, parts, products, or derivatives may be used in commercial trade only if presented with documentation from CITES certifying that it was acquired prior to June 11, 1992.