Likely genuine mahogany; possibly sapele or another African mahogany. Identification from this finished edge alone is uncertain. — Likely Swietenia macrophylla; alternative: Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele).

Likely genuine mahogany; possibly sapele or another African mahogany. Identification from this finished edge alone is uncertain.

Likely Swietenia macrophylla; alternative: Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele). · Hardwood; genuine mahogany is a tropical hardwood.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; genuine mahogany is a tropical hardwood.
Origin
Genuine mahogany is native to tropical Central and South America; sapele grows in West and Central Africa.
Hardness
About 800 lbf for genuine mahogany—Soft by the supplied scale; sapele is substantially harder, around 1,410 lbf.
Durability
Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to gently interlocked grain, with fine darker streaks; the narrow edge view does not show a distinctive figure or cut clearly.

Color & Appearance

Reddish to medium brown with darker grain and a warm, polished luster. Mahogany commonly deepens with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

About 800 lbf for genuine mahogany—Soft by the supplied scale; sapele is substantially harder, around 1,410 lbf.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$8–25 per board foot for common genuine-mahogany lumber; grade, source, and retail location vary greatly.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably estimated from this polished, cropped view; finish and lighting obscure patina and wear.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, trim, veneers, boat interiors, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Genuine mahogany is native to tropical Central and South America; sapele grows in West and Central Africa.

Workability

Generally machines and finishes well; interlocked grain can tear out during planing. Pre-drill near edges for screws.

Finish Recommendations

Use a fine sanding schedule followed by oil, shellac, lacquer, or clear varnish; test first, as finishes can deepen the reddish tone.

Notable Features

Warm reddish color and attractive ribbon-like grain are common; sapele often has stronger interlocking and a more pronounced figure.

Learn more about Likely genuine mahogany; possibly sapele or another African mahogany. Identification from this finished edge alone is uncertain. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 9, 2026