Rosewood refers to a number of richly hued
woods, brownish with darker veining. All rosewoods are strong and heavy, taking
an excellent polish. In general, supplies are poor.
The pre-eminent rosewood appreciated in the western world is Dalbergia nigra,
Brazilian rosewood It is also known as Rio rosewood or Bahia rosewood. This
wood has a strong sweet smell, which persists over the years, explaining the
name "rosewood".
Another classic rosewood is Dalbergia latifolia known as (East) Indian rosewood
or sonokeling. Other rosewoods can be found in tropical America, Southeast
Asia, and Madagascar.