Pearwood and Ebony are both popular choices for furniture and musical instruments due to their unique properties and aesthetic appeal. When comparing Pearwood vs Ebony, Ebony generally emerges as the superior option. This is primarily due to its hardness, durability, and rich, dark color, which are highly sought after in high-end furniture and musical instruments.

Pearwood, on the other hand, is softer and lighter in color, which can make it more susceptible to scratches and dings. While Pearwood has its own charm and is suitable for less demanding applications, Ebony's superior characteristics make it the better choice for those seeking a long-lasting, high-quality product.

According to the Janka Hardness Scale, which measures the resistance of wood to indentation, Ebony ranks significantly higher than Pearwood. Ebony scores around 2200 on the Janka scale, while Pearwood scores around 1000. This indicates that Ebony is much harder and more durable, making it less prone to wear and tear over time. Additionally, Ebony's dense grain and dark color provide a luxurious look that is highly valued in fine furniture and musical instruments.

Furthermore, Ebony's durability is not just a matter of hardness; it also has a high resistance to moisture, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of furniture and instruments over time. This makes Ebony a more reliable choice for long-term use, especially in environments where moisture is a concern.

In the musical instrument industry, Ebony is widely used for piano keys, guitar fretboards, and basses due to its excellent tonal properties and durability. The rich, dark color of Ebony also adds a visual appeal that is often preferred in high-end instruments.

In conclusion, while Pearwood has its merits, Ebony is the better choice when considering factors such as hardness, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Its superior properties make it a preferred material for high-end furniture and musical instruments, justifying its higher cost and popularity in the market.