If there is one rare or exotic hardwood variety that captures the esteemed attention of woodworkers, collectors and interior designers alike then Pink Ivory has to be it. Characterised by its beautiful pink colours, incredible historical status and extreme rarity, Pink Ivory has long been celebrated as one of the world’s most luxurious woods.
In reality, it is known to be “rarer than diamonds” which can be attributed to its scarce nature and the value it holds in Southern African communities.
And that’s what we’ll cover in this article – all about Pink Ivory wood, where it comes from, what makes it special, how durable and stable Pink Ivory is as a wood and the reputation of why it’s still one of the most coveted hardwoods there are.
What Is Pink Ivory Wood ?
Pink Ivory, or scientific name Berchemia zeyheri, is a rare and hard dense wood found only in the Southern African region. It is found in countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Botswana where it can grow to a height of 30–40 meters (100–130 ft), with trunk diameters up to 1.5 meters (5 ft).
It’s slow growing—often taking centuries to —another reason why this tree is rare. Despite the fact that it is a tree and not properly classified as an ivory, these large trees are super rare; more so than Rarer types of hardwoods like Oak, Walnut or Maple.
A Brief History and Cultural Significance
The Zulu people in South Africa have long-held Pink Ivoryin high esteem for millennia. Traditionally the wood was used only by Zulu royalty, and it was carved into ceremonial items, jewelry, and staffs. Possession of Pink Ivory -Not even in the past was it “safe” for anyone who is not a member of the royal family to have Pink Ivory in his/her possession.
This sanctification raised the world-wide reputation of wood. These days, it still retains its image as a high end wood and often commands prices that are on par with other exotics such as Gaboon Ebony or even more!
Appearance: A Natural Wonder in Pink
The dominant characteristic of Pink Ivory wood is its heartwood color, which can be anywhere from a subtle brownish-pink to a vibrant neon pink or deep red. The sapwood, on the other hand, is pale yellow or light brown and transitions gradually into the more dramatic heartwood.
The grain is straight to interlocked, and a fine even texture with a natural luster that can look porcelain like when polished. Some of the wood may also show curly or fiddleback figure, which creates an interesting depth.
Pink Ivory can lose its color over time, or dull somewhat in direct sunlight. Protective finishes slow this process, but the reasons behind fading have never been entirely figured out.
Physical and Mechanical Properties
Pink Ivory is one of the densest and hardest woods in the world, making it both durable and challenging to work with.
- Janka Hardness: 3,230 lbf (14,370 N)
- Density (dried weight): ~65 lbs/ft³ (1,035 kg/m³)
- Specific Gravity: 0.90–1.04
- Crushing Strength: ~11,630 lbf/in² (80.2 MPa)
- Modulus of Rupture: 20,020 lbf/in² (138.1 MPa)
These numbers mean Pink Ivory is exceptionally strong, resistant to wear, and highly durable in the long run. Its fine texture also makes it one of the smoothest exotic woods to finish.
Durability and Resistance
Pink Ivory wood is inherently resistant to decay, fungi and insect infestation – termites too. It also demonstrates high weathering performance, and even shows water and flame resistance. These qualities make it a reliable choice for heirloom-quality objects and high-end decorative pieces meant to last for generations.
Workability: Challenges and Rewards
Pink Ivory is very challenging to work with. It blunts the edges of cutting instruments because of its hardness and density. Tear-out is the name for this phenomenon that many times happens when one is planing or turning interlocked grain, so sharp tools and skilled technique are required.
Despite the need for careful handling, Pink Ivory can be turned and carved into beautiful objects. Working and polishing was a chore on this stone, but it can still be brought up to nice glossy finish so I think it is worth the effort. But woodworkers should note – it has a strange smell when working with it.
Uses of Pink Ivory Wood
Due to it’s scarcity and very high cost, Pink Ivory is seldom used in large pieces of furniture. But rather it’s for small, valuable objects that its beauty is to be appreciated. Common uses include:
- Luxury knife handles
- Turned bowls and vases
- Inlays and veneers
- Pens and fine writing instruments
- Jewelry boxes
- Billiard cues
- Chess pieces
- Decorative carvings and ornaments
In all of these applications, the lovely color and smooth surface of the wood is what takes center stage in the design.
Price and Availability
Pink Ivory is among the most expensive woods in the world. Its scarcity, slow growth, and cultural heritage all drive its high price. Straight, clear defect-free logs are very difficult to find making supply scarce.
Although it is not currently on CITES’ Appendices or on the IUCN Red List, Pink Ivory, like some other exotics, has been rumored to have black market activity. But it is also a protected species in South Africa and can only be harvested with limited permits. It helps to maintain the trade in Pink Ivory as a sustainable one, but also maintains high prices.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
While not considered endangered, Pink Ivory’s limited natural distribution and slow growth rate make responsible sourcing crucial. Consumers should seek out suppliers that follow local laws and sustainable forestry.
By selecting certified, legal sources woodworkers and collectors ensure that they can enjoy this rare species for generations to come while paying respect to it’s storied status.
Why Woodworkers Love Pink Ivory
The high price and difficulty that accompanies working with Pink Ivory doesn’t seem to keep passionate woodworkers away. The reasons are clear:
- Unique beauty: There’s no other wood offers the same vibrant pink tones.
- Prestige factor: There is a special feeling when owning Pink Ivory (or being hired to work with it) because of how rare it is.
- Durability: End products are long lasting or may even last a lifetime.
- Soft texture: Incarnates a silky smooth, high glossy surface finish and is able to turn various small pieces into artistic works.
When it comes right down to the work though, many craftsmen love working with dense wood and find an unique pleasure creating in something so extraordinary.
Final Thoughts: Is Pink Ivory Worth It?
Pink Ivory wood is not for everyone — or every project. It isn’t cheap, and it is a bear to work with too so it’s truly best suited for small high-end projects where its beauty can sing. But for collectors, craftspeople and wood geeks, it stands as one of the crown jewels of the woodworking world.
Whether presented in a hand-turned pen, an exquisite jewelry box or a ceremonial staff, Pink Ivory contains the combined cultural history of centuries and stands as a testament to nature’s awe-inspiring wonders and humankind’s innovative craftsmanship. Simply put, it is one of the most extraordinary woods you will ever encounter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pink Ivory Wood
1. Why is Pink Ivory wood so rare?
Pink Ivory trees grow slowly and take centuries to mature. Large, defect-free logs are extremely scarce, and harvesting is tightly regulated in Southern Africa. This rarity has led many to call it “rarer than diamonds.”
2. What color is Pink Ivory wood?
The heartwood ranges from pale pink to deep reddish-pink or even neon pink, while the sapwood is usually light yellow or brown. Its vibrant color is its most prized feature, though it may fade over time.
3. Is Pink Ivory good for woodworking?
Yes, but it’s challenging. Pink Ivory is very dense and can blunt tools quickly. It is difficult to work in board form but excellent for turning, carving, and fine detail work.
4. What is Pink Ivory used for?
That’s because it is relatively expensive and also is used in relatively small quantities, mainly for luxury items of the miniature variety — knife handles, pens, chess pieces, jewelry boxes, billiard cues and turned bowls.
5. How durable is Pink Ivory?
Pink Ivory is very strong, and is known to be able to withstand age. It also withstands weathering well, and is at least a little water- and fire-resistant.
6. Is Pink Ivory an endangered wood?
No. Pink Ivory is not listed under CITES or the IUCN Red List. However, it is protected under South African law, and harvesting requires permits to ensure sustainability.
7. How much does Pink Ivory cost?
One of the most expensive woods in the world, often fetching similar prices to African Blackwood or Gabon Ebony. It varies in cost depending on the size, quality and sourcing.
8. Can Pink Ivory wood change color?
Yes, its bright pink tones may fade or dull with time, especially with sun exposure. Using protective finishes can help slow the fading.
9. Does Pink Ivory have any cultural significance?
Yes. In traditional southern African culture, Pink Ivory was a royal tree used solely by the Zulu royalty. Non-royalty was the only class historically denied possession of it, ramping up its mystique and status.
10. What makes Pink Ivory special compared to other exotic hardwoods?
Its unique pink coloration, cultural history, rarity, and durability combine to make Pink Ivory one of the most prestigious and desirable woods in the world.
