Mahogany (African or Honduran likely)
Khaya spp. or Swietenia macrophylla · Hardwood / Exotic
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic
- Origin
- West Africa (Khaya) or Central/South America (Swietenia).
- Hardness
- 830 - 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Durable; good resistance to termites and rot, though African varieties are slightly less durable than American true mahogany.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked and straight grain visible, showing ribbon-like figure typical of large tropical hardwoods; medium to coarse texture with open pores.
Color & Appearance
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with a natural luster. The color appears warm and consistent with a slightly aged patina; it tends to darken and become more rich with light exposure over time.
Hardness (Janka)
830 - 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; good resistance to termites and rot, though African varieties are slightly less durable than American true mahogany.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on specific species and grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 20-40 years based on the style of the brass lion-head hardware and the oxidized edges of the wood surface.
- Sustainability Status
- Vulnerable/Endangered; Swietenia is CITES Appendix II listed. African Mahogany (Khaya) is on the IUCN Red List.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (guitar backs and necks), boat building, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
West Africa (Khaya) or Central/South America (Swietenia).
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer to protect the surface; oil finishes (like teak or linseed oil) can enhance the deep reddish tones and grain depth.
Notable Features
Excellent dimensional stability and resonance. Often chosen for its characteristic 'ribbon' chatoyance and easy finishing and staining properties.
