In terms of which is better, rosewood or boxwood, rosewood generally surpasses boxwood in several aspects. Rosewood is renowned for its rich color, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it a preferred choice for high-end furniture and musical instruments. Boxwood, while also a valuable wood, is often favored for its workability and density but lacks the same level of luster and longevity as rosewood.

Rosewood's superior qualities are attributed to its dense grain and high oil content, which contribute to its durability and resistance to moisture. This makes it an ideal material for furniture that is intended to last for generations. Additionally, rosewood's vibrant colors, ranging from rich reds to dark purples, can be enhanced by the application of oil or varnish, providing a luxurious finish. The Janka hardness scale, which measures the resistance of wood to indentation, places rosewood at around 2200, significantly higher than boxwood's 900-1000. This indicates that rosewood is more resistant to wear and tear, making it a better choice for long-lasting applications.

On the other hand, boxwood is valued for its exceptional workability and fine grain, which allows for intricate carvings and detailed designs. It is also known for its density, which contributes to its weight and stability. Boxwood is commonly used in the creation of small, delicate objects such as inlay work, musical instruments, and fine furniture. However, its lower hardness and grain density make it more susceptible to damage and less suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) highlights the differences in wood properties. According to the USDA, rosewood has a specific gravity of 0.85-0.95, indicating its high density and oil content. In contrast, boxwood has a specific gravity of 0.60-0.70, which is lower than rosewood's. This difference in specific gravity is a significant factor in determining the wood's durability and resistance to environmental factors.

In conclusion, while both rosewood and boxwood have their unique advantages, rosewood is generally considered better due to its superior durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to wear and tear. Its high hardness and specific gravity make it a more suitable choice for long-lasting, high-end applications. Boxwood, while valuable for its workability and density, is better suited for delicate and intricate designs where its properties are more advantageous.