Why are Martin guitars manufactured with Brazilian rosewood so sought after?
Mostly, because the wood is so rare and difficult to obtain. Since it is considered nearly extinct, it is extremely expensive if available at all. Martin rosewood models before mid-1969 were made with Brazilian rosewood. As a result, Martin’s long standing reputation for tone was closely connected to the historical use of this wood. Brazilian rosewood is available in very limited quantities for special limited edition orders only. Brazilian rosewood is sometimes referred to as “Jacaranda”. This species of genuine rosewood ranges in color from dark brown to violet, with spidery black streaks. The smell is like roses when freshly cut.
