Rosewood is generally more valuable than wenge. This is due to several factors, including rarity, demand, and legal restrictions. Rosewood, which is a term used to describe a group of hardwoods, is highly sought after for its rich color, durability, and workability. It is used in high-end furniture, musical instruments, and decorative items. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists several species of rosewood as critically endangered, which has led to strict regulations on their trade. These regulations have driven up the price of rosewood, making it more valuable than wenge.

Wenge, on the other hand, is a type of hardwood that is also used in furniture and flooring. It is known for its dark, rich color and is popular in the United States and Europe. However, wenge is not as rare or legally restricted as rosewood. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the trade of wenge is regulated under the Lacey Act, which prohibits the importation of wood products that are illegal under the laws of the country of origin. While this does add to the cost of wenge, it does not drive the price as high as rosewood.

Data from the International Wood Products Association (IWPA) indicates that the average price per cubic meter of rosewood can range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the species and quality. In contrast, the average price per cubic meter of wenge is around $2,000 to $4,000. This significant price difference underscores the higher value of rosewood compared to wenge.

The rarity and legal restrictions on rosewood are further compounded by its cultural significance. Rosewood has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Indian furniture, and its use in these cultural contexts has contributed to its desirability and value. Wenge, while also highly valued, does not carry the same level of cultural significance or rarity as rosewood.

In conclusion, rosewood is more valuable than wenge due to its rarity, demand, and legal restrictions. The high price of rosewood reflects its status as a premium material in the woodworking industry, while wenge, while still valuable, is less expensive and less restricted in trade.