Anjan

Anjan (Hardwickia binata), also known as Indian Blackwood is one of the heaviest and hardest of Indian Timbers. With its rich rosewood-like colouration of reddish-brown with gorgeous black streaking, it has long been a firm favourite for carving chess pieces. Large logs are tough enough to be used in heavy construction including for railway sleepers and pier supports.

Key characteristics:

• Dense, heavy and exceptionally hard, among the toughest of Indian hardwoods
• Rich reddish-brown colouration with dramatic, dark interlocked streaking, often likened to rosewood
• Close, even texture with interlocked grain
• High cutting resistance, requiring sharp tools and careful handling
• Takes a fine polish, bringing out the contrast between the streaking and background colour

Suited to: chess pieces and other small carved items, turned handles, and other small precision projects where weight, density and striking colour contrast are wanted.