Mixed Hardwoods (Edge-Grain Laminated Board featuring African Mahogany, Purpleheart, Cherry, and Maple)
Khaya spp., Peltogyne spp., Prunus serotina, Acer saccharum • Hardwood and Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight and quarter-sawn edge grain; includes interlocked grain (African Mahogany), diffuse-porous fine grain (Maple/Cherry), and coarse texture (Purpleheart/Mahogany).
Color Description
A multi-colored spectrum: deep reddish-brown with chatoyancy (Mahogany), vibrant purple (Purpleheart), warm golden-brown with cathedral figure (Cherry), and creamy white (Hard Maple).
Hardness Rating
Varies by strip: 830 lbf (Mahogany/Soft) to 2,520 lbf (Purpleheart/Extremely Hard); Mixed average is Hard (approx. 1450 lbf).
Durability Rating
Varied: Purpleheart is Very Durable/Rot Resistant; Maple and Cherry are Perishable to Moderately Durable; overall suitable for indoor culinary use.
Common Uses
Edge-grain cutting boards, butcher blocks, decorative serving trays, and fine furniture inlay.
Geographic Origin
Global mix: West Africa (Mahogany), Central/South America (Purpleheart), and Eastern North America (Maple/Cherry).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Calculated value for the finished laminated board: $60-$120 depending on dimensions; Raw material average $8-$15 per board foot.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern construction (5-10 years); colors are vivid indicating recent finishing or minimal UV-induced darkening/fading.
Sustainability Status
Mixed: Khaya is IUCN Vulnerable; Purpleheart is often FSC available; Maple and Cherry are sustainably harvested in North America.
Workability
Challenging due to varying densities; Purpleheart is very hard on blades; Mahogany prone to tearout in interlocked grain; Maple burns easily if friction is high.
Notable Features
High contrast aesthetics; Purpleheart changes from brown to purple upon exposure to air; Mahogany exhibits ribbon-stripe chatoyancy.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade Mineral Oil and Beeswax blend is standard; needs regular re-oiling to maintain color and prevent cracking between glue joints.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of species is a classic 'strip board' palette often sold in woodworking kits or custom craft shops.