Pink Ivory

Pink Ivory (Berchemia zeyherii)

Common Names : Pink Ivory, Red Ivorywood

Distribution:  Southern Africa

Color/Appearance : Pink Ivory ranges in color from a pale brownish pink, to a bright, almost neon pink, to a deep red. Typically the most valuable pieces of Pink Ivory are a vibrant  pink. Pink Ivory can commonly be seen with a curly or fiddleback grain pattern, further enhancing its visual impact. Sapwood of Pink Ivory tends to be pale yellow to light brown, with a somewhat gradual demarcation from heartwood. Color changes in Pink Ivory (becoming faded or dull over time) can be problematic and are not fully understood.

 Janka hardness : 3230 lbf

Density : 5.42 lb/lbf

Shrinkage: 1

Radial (thickness): 4.8%

Tangential (width): 7.2%

Volumetric (total): 12.1%

T/R Ratio (width to depth): 1.5

Allergies/toxicity: Besides the standard health risks associated with any type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been associated with Pink Ivory.

Controlled species : CITES : No, l’IUCN : No

Common uses : Carving, veneers, inlay, knife handles, billiard cues, chessmen, and other turned objects.