Likely mahogany (possibly African mahogany); alternatives include sapele or another reddish-brown tropical hardwood. — Likely Khaya spp.; alternatives include Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele) or Swietenia spp.

Likely mahogany (possibly African mahogany); alternatives include sapele or another reddish-brown tropical hardwood.

Likely Khaya spp.; alternatives include Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele) or Swietenia spp. · Exotic/Tropical hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Exotic/Tropical hardwood
Origin
If African mahogany, tropical West and Central Africa; true mahogany is native to the Americas.
Hardness
About 1,070 lbf for African mahogany—Medium; values vary by species.
Durability
Moderately Durable; heartwood generally resists decay better than sapwood, with variable insect resistance.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, with fine, slightly irregular longitudinal grain; the photo does not establish cut orientation or show distinctive figure.

Color & Appearance

Medium reddish-brown to tan, apparently fairly uniform; heartwood/sapwood boundary and age-related color change cannot be determined from this image.

Hardness (Janka)

About 1,070 lbf for African mahogany—Medium; values vary by species.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; heartwood generally resists decay better than sapwood, with variable insect resistance.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$8–20 per board foot for common surfaced stock; species, grade, thickness, and region strongly affect price.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Not reliably estimable from the image; no clear patina or wear indicators are visible.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, joinery, veneers, boat interiors, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

If African mahogany, tropical West and Central Africa; true mahogany is native to the Americas.

Workability

Usually machines and sands well; use sharp cutters, and predrill near edges to reduce splitting. Gluing and finishing are generally straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively and apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or clear varnish; test first, as color and absorption vary.

Notable Features

The visible face has a fine, fairly even texture and subdued reddish-brown color; no distinctive scent or figure can be assessed.

Learn more about Likely mahogany (possibly African mahogany); alternatives include sapele or another reddish-brown tropical hardwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 28, 2026