Mahogany (specifically African Mahogany)
Khaya ivorensis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; exhibits a slight ribbon-stripe figure common in quarter-sawn surfaces and a subtle wavy pattern
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pale pink to a deeper reddish-brown; darkens with age and exposure to light. It possesses a natural gold-like luster and noticeable chatoyance
Hardness Rating
830 lbf (Soft to Medium-Hard)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot and termites but is susceptible to marine borers; typically used for indoor applications
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding (interior), musical instruments (especially guitar backs and necks), veneer, and luxury trim
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West, Central, and East Africa)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $7.50 to $12.00 per board foot depending on width and figure
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears modern (1-10 years post-milling) based on the surface pencil markings and the relatively bright, non-oxidized state of the reddish hues
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to a population reduction of over 20% in the last three generations; often available with FSC certification
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing or surfacing; glues and finishes very well
Notable Features
Often used as a more sustainable/affordable alternative to Honduran Mahogany; can cause respiratory irritation or skin sensitization in some woodworkers
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and most finishes beautifully; a grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth high-gloss finish is desired due to the open pores
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-pink hue, distinct open-pore structure visible in the image, and the 'Khaya' or 'Mahogany' style grain are diagnostic of this species