Snakewood: presentation and origins

Snakewood(Marmoroxylon racemosum, formerly classified in the Pithecolobium genus) is a tropical forest species endemic to French Guiana and northern South America. Its vernacular name - "snake wood" in French, angelim rajado or bostamarinde in Portuguese-speaking countries - refers directly to the pattern of its sapwood: a golden-yellow background crossed by long, dark, irregularly contoured mottles, reminiscent of a snake's scales. This species was identified and exploited for its technical qualities long before the cutlery industry took an interest in it, notably in exceptional cabinetry and marquetry.

Properties and technical characteristics

Snakewood has a high density, estimated at between 0.80 and 1.00 g/cm³, making it considerably heavier than common European species. This density gives it remarkable mechanical strength and excellent resistance to humidity, making it a safe choice for handles exposed to a variety of environments.

Color and pattern

The basic hue ranges from saffron yellow to amber beige, with dark brown to almost black mottling forming random, unique patterns on each piece. The grain is fine to medium, and the whole is very homogeneous between two planks from the same batch - although each piece remains singular in its design. When finished with oil or varnish, the contrasts are clearly saturated, revealing the full depth of the figure.

Machining behaviour

Its high density requires sharp tools and a gradual approach to roughing. The material responds well to both hand and machine machining. Sanding gradually reveals the contrast between light and dark areas. Dimensional stability is good once the piece is dry, with limited shrinkage.

How to choose snakewood for your knife?

Snakewood is suitable for a wide range of cutlery projects, from high-end kitchen knives to collector's knives, hunting knives and folding-blade pocket knives. Here are the main criteria to consider before choosing your pieces:

• Handle weight: the high density of snakewood results in a handle with "body". This is an advantage for fixed knives, but should be considered for lightweight blades.
• The desired figure: variations in marbling are significant from one piece to another. Rough blocks allow you to visualize the design before cutting; pre-cut handles guarantee a geometry that can be directly exploited.
• Finish: this wood accepts natural oils (linseed, tung) which saturate the hues, as well as hard varnishes for a high-contrast gloss finish. Avoid excessively thick finishes that mask the fine grain.
• Matching with the blade: the warm tones of snakewood blend particularly well with damascus steel or blades with a brown patina, creating a strong visual coherence.
• Workshop skills: beginners will benefit from working on pre-cut handles; experienced cutlers will exploit blocks for custom geometries.

Mercorne and snakewood: 34 years of selection

Mercorne has been offering snakewood since the company was founded, convinced of the value of this Guyanese species often overlooked outside the circles of marquetry and exceptional cabinetmaking. Our batches are selected according to strict criteria: density, regularity of grain, intensity of figure, absence of knots or drying cracks. Each piece is cut in our workshop in France, guaranteeing precise, consistent dimensions for every order.

The catalog includes over 350 snakewood references, in handles, blocks and planks, in numerous dimensions to suit all knife formats. Same-day shipping on orders placed before 12 noon. Free delivery on orders over €90. Returns accepted within 15 days.

Frequently asked questions about snakewood

Where does the name "snakewood" come from?

The name comes from the natural cross-sectional pattern of the wood: the dark mottling on a yellow background is reminiscent of a snake's scales or patterns. This vernacular name is used mainly in France and French-speaking countries; in Brazil and Portuguese Guyana, it's known asangelim rajado.

Is snakewood difficult to work with in the workshop?

Its high density requires well-sharpened tools and a suitable cutting speed. It is not the easiest wood for beginners, but presents no insurmountable difficulties for a cutler who has already worked with dense exotic woods. Progressive sanding, starting with fairly coarse grains, gives the best results.

What finish do you recommend for snakewood?

Natural oils - baked linseed, tung, or a mixture of the two - are the finishes that best reveal the figure, saturating the colors without distorting them. For a glossier finish and enhanced protection, a matte or satin-finish polyurethane varnish works very well. Snakewood doesn't need excessive protection thanks to its natural density.

Is snakewood suitable for kitchen knives?

Yes, provided you apply an appropriate food-safe finish (baked linseed oil, varnish approved for food contact) and avoid prolonged immersion in water. Its density and stability make it a good candidate for chef's knives and artisanal kitchen knives, provided it is properly treated and maintained.

Can I order specific sizes not listed on the site?

Yes, Mercorne offers a custom cutting service for craftsmen with specific size requirements. Simply contact Olivier directly via the contact form or by telephone for a quote. Lead times depend on stock availability at the time of request.