Katalox (Swartzia cubensis)—often called Mexican Royal Ebony—is a dense exotic hardwood prized for its dark, elegant color and exceptional strength. The wood ranges from rich purple-brown to nearly black, often deepening with age and exposure to light.
Katalox turns very cleanly with sharp tools, producing crisp detail and smooth surfaces. Its fine, dense grain allows it to sand and polish to a high, glass-like finish. When properly dried, katalox offers excellent stability and durability, making it well suited for precision and high-end turning projects.
Common uses include turning blanks, pens, tool handles, knife scales, musical instruments, furniture accents, and decorative turnings.
Kiln dried to below 10% moisture content
End grain sealed in wax to maintain moisture content
Protective wax seal guaranteed for 30 days Guaranteed defect-free (unless otherwise noted) All orders fulfilled within 2 business days Shipments fully insured against loss and damage