Goncalo Alves:

Below you will find information about some of the timber I use in the making of Chairs, and other furniture. (some of it may not be avalable in your area.)

Goncalo Alves:

• "Astronium fraxinifolium"

Other Names:

• Zebrawood (UK).
• Tigerwood (USA).

Sources:

• Brazil.

Tree Characteristics:

• A tree of medium size, producing a straight trunk about 3ft 3in in diameter.

Characteristics of the wood:

• A hard medium textured wood, with irregular interlocked grain and hard and soft layers of material. It is reddish brown in colour with dark brown streaks, and is similar in appearance to rosewood.
• The wood is naturally very durable.

Workability:

• A difficult wood to work, requiring regular sharpening of the tools.
• It is a good wood for turning and glues well.

Average dried weight:

• 59lb/cuft.

Finishing:

• The wood finishes with a natural lustre and polishes to a fine finish.

Common uses:

• Fine furniture.
• Turnery.
• Decorative woodware.
• Veneer.