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How to Identify Rosewood and Similar Dark Timbers

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Rosewoods are dense, often strongly figured timbers from several Dalbergia species, widely used as veneer and solid decorative components.

What to examine

Look for dark streaking, fine texture, weight and the way veneer is arranged. Never rely on smell tests that require cutting.

Avoid the common trap

Many woods were stained to imitate rosewood, and wildlife controls may apply. Preserve provenance and seek expert identification.

Record your findings

Photograph the whole object, the feature in context and a close-up with scale. Note what is observed separately from any conclusion.

Reliable starting points

  • [V&A collections](https://www.vam.ac.uk/collections)
  • [The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Heilbrunn Timeline](https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/)

Identification should combine several forms of evidence. Do not use destructive tests, and seek a specialist opinion where attribution or value matters.

Learn by looking closely

See workshop examinations and restoration details on the [Antique Repair Shop YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop).