Purple rosewood, also called violet wood has been worked a lot by French cabinetmakers in classical furniture. The tobacco color of this species is more intense than that of other neighboring species. Nevertheless, this color comes from an evolution of the initially purple wood. Some well-protected furniture may have retained their original purple shade..

Purple rosewood is considered a “Rosewood”, and as such it is protected against overexploitation. It is a rare and expensive wood which requires traceability and marketing authorizations.

Purple rosewood is used for crafting some high-quality guitars to which it gives a rich and deep sound.