Tulip wood

 

Tulip wood  

Tulipwood is a rare exotic wood, known for its beauty and artistic use. There are two main types of wood known as Tulipwood, which can be easily confused but come from different sources.

Brazilian Tulipwood (Dalbergia decipularis) – I use this species

This is the real Tulipwood, which belongs to the rosewood (Rosewood) and comes from a tree growing in Brazil.

Brazilian Tulipwood is characterized by its distinctly pink to reddish color with irregular creamy yellow bands that form a beautiful contrasting pattern. These color combinations give it a unique and luxurious look.

It is very hard and dense (JANKA hardness is 2500 lbf), which makes it durable and ideal for fine processing. However, it is difficult to machine due to its hardness. Brazilian Tulipwood is traditionally used to make marquetry, jewelry boxes, musical instruments (especially bow handles), knife handles, small decorative items, and luxury furniture. Due to its rarity and limited availability, it is often used for smaller, exclusive projects.

It belongs to the rarest and most expensive species of wood in the world.

American Tulipwood (Liriodendron tulipifera)

This species is also known as "Yellow Poplar" or "Tulip Poplar" and is native to the eastern regions of North America. However, it is completely different from the Brazilian Tulipwood.

American Tulipwood has soft and light wood that ranges from creamy white to light brown with greenish or yellowish tones. Sometimes it can contain darker spots or bands, which gives it an interesting look.

This wood is light and moderately strong, easy to work and stain, which makes it a popular material for various uses. American Tulipwood is often used for the production of furniture, veneer, interior panelling, toys, musical instruments and other items where a light and easily processed wood is required.