With alternating bands of black and light tan, our striped Macassar Ebony is one of our most striking woods. It comes from Celebes and Sulawesi Island in East Indonesia. Macassar Ebony glues well and bends readily as we can attest to by all the sets our customers have had us bend for them. Its stability and low damping make it a favorite tonewood for Breedlove guitars. Pair it with a nice white Englemann Spruce top for an instrument of striking visual and sonic quality.
The quality and appearance of the Macassar Ebony we receive varies widely. In order to get the best stuff, and to offer this spectacular wood at various price points, we are now offering a wider variety under the following descriptions:
Striped: These are the rarest and most coveted. A white/light tan background with high contrast black striping.
Moderate Stripe: Less contrast (darker background) but still eye-catching and dramatic. Usually black with blonde stripes.
Sapwood: Black with high contrast sapwood centers. Many of the sapwood centers are quite broad.
Straight grain: A distinguished, more subdued look with thin, light colored lines on a black background.
Black: Mostly black color with little to none of the striping we see in higher grades. Still great sounding, these sets are actually preferred by some builders, Petros Guitars being a notable example.
The OM Backs and Sides typically measure 7 3/4” on the backs and 5” on the sides.
