Gibson.com: Gibson Joan Jett Blackheart

Body

Species
The body of each Gibson USA Joan Jett Blackheart is crafted from solid mahogany, just like the original Melody Makers of the ’60s. This classic tone wood has yielded some of the most sought-after tones in the history of rock. Body Species

Tonal Characteristics
Mahogany is a medium-dense wood with excellent resonance and superior sustain, and it offers a rich, round, warm tone, but with plenty of high-end sheen and good midrange presence. The mahogany of the Gibson USA Joan Jett Blackheart also lends a percussive snap and some added clarity to the tone of the guitar.

Design
The body of the Joan Jett Blackheart is made to the design of the Melody Maker of the early to mid ’60s, with two cutaways for outstanding access to the neck’s upper frets. Body Design

Weight
The total average weight of a Gibson USA Joan Jett Blackheart body is under 4 lbs, making for an extremely light finished guitar. Weight

Finish

Color
The Gibson USA Joan Jett Blackheart has a satin ebony finish. Finish

Process
The guitar is hand-finished in nitrocellulose in a multi-step process that is carefully monitored to ensure minimum build-up, to produce a finish that breathes with the guitar and enhances natural resonance. Unlike many other manufacturers, who settle for a polyurethane finish, Gibson opts for a nitrocellulose finish that will encourage the natural vibration of the instrument for a purer tone. In addition, a nitro finish is very porous and actually gets thinner over time.

Surface Texture
The Joan Jett Blackheart has a grain-textured satin finish for a worn-in feel.