Ovangkol (Guibourtia ehie) wood
Ovangkol is a versatile and attractive tropical hardwood known for its warm, varied color tones, beautiful grain patterns, and dependable structural performance. Often used as an alternative to more expensive exotic species like Rosewood, it combines aesthetic appeal with strength and workability, making it ideal for fine joinery, luxury flooring, musical instruments, and interior architecture.
OVANGKOL (Guibourtia ehie)
Common Names: Ovangkol, Amazique, Shedua, Mozambique
Origin: West and Central Africa — especially Ghana, Cameroon, and Gabon
Description:
Ovangkol is a versatile and attractive tropical hardwood known for its warm, varied color tones, beautiful grain patterns, and dependable structural performance. Often used as an alternative to more expensive exotic species like Rosewood, it combines aesthetic appeal with strength and workability, making it ideal for fine joinery, luxury flooring, musical instruments, and interior architecture.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Guibourtia ehie |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Density (Dry) | 720–850 kg/m³ |
| Janka Hardness | 1,220 lbf (5,430 N) |
| Bending Strength (MOR) | 110 MPa |
| Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) | 12,500 MPa |
| Crushing Strength | 57 MPa |
| Shrinkage (Radial/Tangential) | 3.2% / 5.4% |
| Durability Class | Class 2 – Durable |
| Natural Resistance | Good resistance to fungi and termites |
| Workability | Machines well, may dull blades slightly; glues and finishes beautifully |
| Finishing | Excellent – sands smooth, takes oil, stain, and polish well |
Color & Appearance
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Heartwood: Yellowish to medium brown, often with grey, green, or dark streaks
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Sapwood: Pale and sharply demarcated
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Grain: Interlocked to straight, producing striking ribbon or mottled figure
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Texture: Medium to coarse, with moderate natural luster
Common Applications
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Fine furniture and cabinetry
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Musical instruments (notably guitar backs and sides)
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Decorative veneers and panels
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Luxury interior design and millwork
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Flooring and stair treads
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Turned objects and artisanal woodcraft
Sustainability & Certification
At Timber Experts Global Holdings, Ovangkol is sourced from responsibly managed forests, compliant with international regulations and FSC® / PEFC™ certification standards upon request. Sustainability is at the heart of our commitment to premium tropical hardwoods.
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