Pink ivory

Berchemia zeyheri, blare en blomknoppe, Manie van der Schijff BT

Pink Ivory (Berchemia zeyheri) is a rare and valuable wood native to Southern Africa. It is highly prized for its striking pink to red coloration, which makes it a favorite among woodworkers and collectors for the creation of fine furniture, turned objects, and other decorative items. The tree from which Pink Ivory is harvested belongs to the family Rhamnaceae, and it grows predominantly in the regions of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa.

Description

Pink Ivory wood is renowned for its dense, fine grain and smooth texture, which allows it to be polished to a very high luster. The heartwood's color can range from a pale pinkish hue to a deep, vibrant red, often with subtle variations and streaks. The sapwood, in contrast, is usually a much lighter, almost white color. The trees themselves can reach heights of up to 30 meters, with trunk diameters of up to 1 meter, although such large specimens are becoming increasingly rare due to overharvesting and habitat loss.

Conservation Status

Due to its desirability and the limited range in which it can be found, Pink Ivory is considered to be a vulnerable species. Overharvesting for the wood trade has led to a significant decline in its population. Conservation efforts are in place in some areas to ensure the sustainable management and protection of Pink Ivory trees, but illegal logging and land conversion continue to pose threats to its survival.

Uses

Pink Ivory is used in a variety of applications, from fine furniture and cabinetry to small decorative items like jewelry boxes, chess pieces, and musical instruments. Its exceptional beauty and rarity also make it a popular choice for veneers and inlays in luxury items. Despite its hardness and density, Pink Ivory is relatively easy to work with using both hand tools and machinery, making it a favored material among artisans and craftsmen.

Cultural Significance

In some African cultures, Pink Ivory holds a special significance and is sometimes referred to as the "Royal Tree of the Zulus." It is believed that in the past, only Zulu royalty was permitted to possess items made from Pink Ivory wood, which added to its mystique and value.

Availability and Trade

The trade of Pink Ivory is regulated to prevent overexploitation, with export permits required from the countries of origin. However, due to its high demand and the limited supply, Pink Ivory remains one of the most expensive woods on the market. This has also led to the development of synthetic alternatives and dyes designed to mimic the wood's distinctive color, though none can fully replicate its natural beauty and texture.

Conclusion

Pink Ivory (Berchemia zeyheri) stands out as one of the most exquisite and sought-after woods in the world. Its unique color, fine grain, and the skill required to work it make it a prized possession for any collector or craftsman. However, the rarity and vulnerability of the species highlight the need for continued conservation efforts to ensure that this natural treasure does not become a legend of the past.