Called Mpingo by tribal Africans, this member of the Rosewood family has long been recognized as the World's best tone wood, surpassing the revered "Brazilian Rosewood." The wood is black with violet streaks (when seen up close). At a distance it appears as black as night. This hardwood finishes to an incredibly fine satiny smooth polish. It is difficult to work and bend, but glues ok. It is very stable in use. Air dried and surfaced on two sides. Kiln dried. W24388: Instrument Grade. Has a check that takes away 5/8" of usable width from one edge. Also a live edge that should sand away easily when finishing. Should work for a set of classical guitar sides. Really good quality but will need to work with those 2 imperfections, which are pictured.