DESCRIPTION: A sacred wood of Zulu chiefs in Southern Africa. Has long been treasured as a rare wood; at one time, it was said to be rarer than diamonds. The heartwood ranges in color from a faint, light pink to a vibrant, almost red. The sapwood is yellowish. Has a very fine grain & takes as a high polish. Fantastic ornamental turning wood also. Very hard & heavy, with the ability to take very fine details. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: The wood grows in various parts of Africa; found predominantly in South Africa, Zimbabwe & Mozambique. BOTANICAL NAME: Berchemia Zeyheri JANKA HARDNESS: 995