Cocobolo Sushi Hangiri or Bowl

This hand-turned bowl or Sushi Hangiri is 8" diameter and 2" high, made from a gorgeous piece of cocobolo that includes a little of the much sought-after sapwood that adds unique contrast and variety. I really like working with cocobolo - the texture is so smooth, it cuts so evenly, and it polishes to a shiny surface even without finish. As with all my bowls, this is sealed with mineral oil and beeswax so it's food-safe and ready for use.

Cocobolo is a medium sized Central American tree growing up to 2' diameter and 90' tall. The heartwood is typically orange or reddish-brown in color, often with a figuring of darker irregular traces weaving through the wood, while the sapwood is a creamy yellow, contrasting sharply with the heartwood. Its fine texture and excellent color make Cocobolo one of the most popular exotic woods. Grows along Pacific seaboard of Mexico and Central America. Considered one of the most important woods in cutlery business for knife handles (can be soaked in soapy water with minimal ill effects). Also used for tool handles, brush backs, bowling balls, chess pieces, carving, jewelry boxes, canes, utensils, buttons, musical and scientific instruments, especially guitars and basses, but some woodwind instruments such as clarinets and oboes have been successfully made using cocobolo instead of the more usual African blackwood. It is also used in making luxury pens, and decorative veneer and inlay.

Because it is so sought after, cocobolo is a little pricey. Price for a 8"x2" Cocobolo Bowl or Hangiri like this one: $62.00 - and be sure to specify whether you want sapwood if it's available, or if you prefer the dark colors only.