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. W24390: 3/4" incurson near edge. Few small sound pin knots with small checks. Will need to be able to work with defects. Split on edge. Can work with 3-1/4" of wood on said split end. As is.