Honduran Mahogany
Swietenia macrophylla • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine, uniform texture; typical ribbon-stripe figure is visible on quartersawn surfaces
Color Description
Heartwood varies from a light pinkish brown to a deeper reddish brown; color darkens with age to a rich, deep red. High natural luster and subtle chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to termites and rot, though susceptible to powder post beetles
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (guitar backs/necks), boat building, and fine veneer
Geographic Origin
Central and South America; widely grown on plantations across Asia and the Pacific
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $25 per board foot depending on figure and width
Wood Age Estimate
Approximately 30-60 years based on the oxidation of the finish and the style of the furniture joinery
Sustainability Status
CITES Appendix II listed; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable; FSC certified stock is available but limited
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; sands easily and glues well, though interlocked grain can cause some tearout during planing
Notable Features
Faint, pleasant spicy scent when worked; very stable wood with low shrinkage rates; historically the standard for fine cabinetmaking
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to traditional shellac (French polish), lacquer, or oil finishes to enhance the natural depth of color
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive reddish-brown color, diffuse-porous grain structure, and application in high-quality furniture are classic indicators of Swietenia species.