Indian is home to some of the best pieces of furniture. Indian artisans use their superb skills and ideas that have been passed down from generation to generation to make furniture that speaks of quality and durability. Many furniture and antique collectors believe that a collection is not complete without Indian furniture, especially wooden furniture.

Among all the pieces that are made in India, hardwood furniture is the most common type. Indian hardwood furniture is revered the world over and has found a place in the homes of the rich and famous.

The following are some of the most popular types of hardwood used by the Indian furniture maker.

Mahogany

This is one of the most expensive woods available in the world. Mahogany cultivation is controlled by the Indian government and is only grown for commercial purposes. Not everyone is allowed to grow the tree and you have to present valid reasons to the government as to why you want to grow the wood. Mahogany has a reddish-brown color and is a fine-grained wood. It is highly durable and able to resist shrinkage, warping, and swelling. It is widely used for the manufacture of quality furniture such as wainscoting, veneers, cabinets, tables and cupboards.

Walnut

Walnut wood has a fine texture, has considerable strength, and is easy to work with. The wood is resistant to warping and shrinkage and is friendly to almost all types of finishes. Walnut lumber is used primarily in the manufacture of veneered and solid furniture, gun stocks, cabinetry, wall paneling, and novelties.

Oak

Oak is a common wood used in making wooden furniture from India. In addition to its durability, oak includes good flex qualities. The wood is considered good for trim, boat frames, flooring, and the manufacture of wooden desks.

Maple

Although not found in abundance in India, maple has immense hardness and strength and is a well-textured wood. Maple macerates are considered good for floors as they have moderate shrinkage. Maple wood is also used to make furniture and other wooden items like bowling pins.

Cherry

Cherry is a less frequently used wood. It is close-grained and resistant to shrinkage and deformation. The color of the wood turns red when exposed to sunlight. The wood ages well and is often used extensively to make cabinets and novelties, as well as solid handles for furniture.

Rosewood

Rosewood has a dark reddish brown color and is a close-grained hardwood. Lately, this type of wood has aroused considerable interest among Indian wooden furniture manufacturers. Furthermore, the demands of the western world are also fueling its popularity. The wood comes with a unique fragrance, is highly polished and difficult to work with. The wood is good for making piano cases, musical instruments, art projects, tool handles, furniture, and veneers.

teak

Teak is moisture resistant. It is resistant to cracking, warping and decay. It is best used for making fine furniture, shipbuilding, paneling, windows, doors, and flooring. Teak is also a great construction wood.