Pink Ivory
Pink Ivory might be the most visually striking wood on this list — that vibrant, almost neon pink is unlike anything else in nature. Considered sacred by the Zulu and once reserved for royalty, it's genuinely scarce and expensive. Available mainly in pen blanks and small turning stock. The color is real, but UV exposure will fade it over time — keep finished pieces away from direct light.
- Not using carbide tooling on the lathe — standard HSS dulls almost immediately; carbide makes turning manageable
- Finishing without UV-inhibiting topcoat — the signature pink fades to reddish brown without UV protection
- Expecting board-form workability — Pink Ivory is a pen blank and turning blank wood, not a furniture wood
Ranges from pale brownish pink to a vibrant, almost neon pink to deep red. Most valuable pieces are a vivid pink. Color can fade to reddish brown over time — UV exposure accelerates this.
Pronounced blunting effect on cutting edges — sharpen frequently. Tearout is common on figured sections. Far more manageable as turning or carving stock than in board form. Carbide tooling makes turning significantly easier. Unpleasant odor when worked.
| Region | Availability |
|---|---|
| North America | Specialty importers only |
| Europe | Specialty importers only |
| South America | Specialty importers only |
| Africa / Middle East | Specialty importers only |
| Southeast Asia | Specialty importers only |
| Australia / NZ | Specialty importers only |