Ebony is generally more expensive than rosewood. This is due to several factors that influence the value of these woods, including their rarity, availability, and the demand for their unique properties.

Firstly, ebony is considered a luxury wood due to its scarcity. It is sourced from tropical forests, particularly in Africa and Asia, where overharvesting and habitat destruction have significantly reduced its population. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists several species of ebony as endangered or vulnerable. This scarcity drives up the price, as it becomes more difficult to source the wood.

Secondly, rosewood is also a highly sought-after wood, but it is not as rare as ebony. Rosewood is used in high-end furniture, musical instruments, and decorative items due to its rich color, durability, and luster. However, there are several species of rosewood that are protected under international agreements such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The protection status and the limited availability of certain rosewood species contribute to its higher price in comparison to non-protected species.

Furthermore, the demand for ebony in the musical instrument industry, particularly for piano keys and guitar fretboards, has maintained its high value. The unique tonal qualities and durability of ebony make it a preferred choice for instrument makers, which further drives up its price.

According to a report by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), the price of ebony has been consistently higher than that of rosewood. For instance, in 2019, the average price of ebony was around $5,000 per cubic meter, while the price of rosewood ranged from $1,000 to $3,000 per cubic meter, depending on the species and quality.

In conclusion, ebony is more expensive than rosewood due to its rarity, the demand in the musical instrument industry, and the limited availability of certain rosewood species. The high price of ebony reflects its status as a luxury wood, while rosewood remains a valuable but less expensive option.