What's the difference between Brazilwood and Pernambuco bows?

Brazilwood and pernambuco are two types of wood that are commonly used in the making of bows for stringed instruments like violins, violas, and cellos. While they may appear similar, there are key differences between them: 

• Wood Type:

Brazilwood (Pernambuco): Brazilwood is a type of wood, and Pernambuco is a specific type of Brazilwood. Pernambuco wood comes from the Pernambuco tree (Caesalpinia echinata), which is native to Brazil. Pernambuco is highly regarded for its qualities as a bow-making wood. 

• Rarity and Availability:

Brazilwood: Brazilwood, in a broader sense, includes various types of wood from Brazil. While some of these woods are used for bows, Pernambuco is the most coveted and widely used for high-quality bow making. Pernambuco wood is, however, relatively rare and can be difficult to source in sufficient quantities. 

• Acoustic Properties:

Pernambuco: Pernambuco is known for its exceptional acoustic properties. It is dense and has a fine grain structure, which contributes to its ability to produce a clear and resonant tone when drawn across the strings of a stringed instrument. This makes it the preferred choice for professional musicians and serious players. 

• Weight and Flexibility:

Pernambuco: Pernambuco wood is prized for its balanced weight and flexibility. Bows made from Pernambuco are known for their ability to provide control and precision while playing. 

• Craftsmanship:

Pernambuco: Due to its acoustic properties and the tradition of its use in bow making, Pernambuco is often the wood of choice for high-quality, handcrafted bows. Master bow makers prefer Pernambuco due to its workability and tonal qualities. 

• Price:

Pernambuco: Bows made from Pernambuco tend to be more expensive than those made from other types of wood due to its rarity, quality, and demand among professional musicians. 

In summary, Pernambuco is a specific type of Brazilwood known for its exceptional acoustic properties, making it the preferred choice for high-quality bow making in the world of stringed instruments. While other types of Brazilwood can be used for bows, Pernambuco remains the gold standard for serious musicians.