Honduran Mahogany
Swietenia macrophylla • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine, uniform texture; exhibits a distinct ribbon-like appearance when quarter-sawn.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from a pale pinkish-brown to a dark reddish-brown; darkens with age and light exposure. Features a natural high luster and chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
800 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and termites, though usually used indoors for musical instruments.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (drums, guitar necks and bodies), high-end furniture, cabinetry, boat building, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (Mexico to Brazil); also grown on plantations in Southeast Asia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot for genuine old-growth stock.
Wood Age Estimate
Vintage, likely 50-70 years old based on the hardware patina and deep oxidation of the wood under the lacquer.
Sustainability Status
CITES Appendix II listed; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable; FSC certified sources are available but rare for non-plantation stock.
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; sands easily, glues well, and takes a stain beautifully, though interlocked grain can cause minor tearout.
Notable Features
Excellent acoustic resonance and stability; distinct lack of prominent odor once seasoned; contains minimal silica but high aesthetic value.
Finish Recommendations
Nitrocellulose lacquer is Traditional for drums; also responds well to shellac, oils, and high-gloss polyurethane to highlight chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
High; the pore structure, color deepening, and typical use in vintage drum shells strongly indicate genuine Swietenia species.