Quarter-sawn Honduran Mahogany (with heavy pommele or ribbon figure)
Swietenia macrophylla · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central and South America (historically native to tropical regions of the Neotropics; currently largely plantation-grown)
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termites.
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Grain Pattern
Quarter-sawn with very prominent chatoyant ribbon and mottled/pommele figure creating a shimmering, dimensional appearance.
Color & Appearance
Rich reddish-brown to deep golden-brown with high natural luster and exceptional chatoyance. Darkens significantly to a deep, warm patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 to $30.00+ per board foot depending on the grade and exceptional figure intensity.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Kiln-dried lumber, professionally milled relatively recently, though the wood exhibits a rich matured oxidation color suggesting good aging potential.
- Sustainability Status
- CITES Appendix II listed. IUCN vulnerable. Highly regulated, though plantation-grown and ethically harvested sources exist.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (guitars, piano cases), high-end architectural millwork, and decorative veneer.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (historically native to tropical regions of the Neotropics; currently largely plantation-grown)
Workability
Exceptionally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, turns, and finishes wonderfully, though interlocked ribbon grain can occasionally cause minor tearout during planing if not managed carefully.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and varnishes exceptionally well, highlighting the deep three-dimensional chatoyant grain without requiring excessive preparation.
Notable Features
High dimensional stability, exceptional natural chatoyance and figure, distinct warm reddish tone, and moderate weight.
