Honduran Mahogany
Swietenia macrophylla · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Native to Southern Mexico and Central and South America; often plantation-grown in Southeast Asia.
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, though only moderately resistant to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium texture; displays a faint ribbon stripe figure consistent with quarter-sawn or near-quarter-sawn milling.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a deep reddish-brown with a golden luster. It shows significant chatoyance and typically darkens with age and light exposure. Minimal sapwood is visible, which would naturally be a pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, though only moderately resistant to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on figure and certification.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The sample appears to be a vintage furniture component, likely 20-50 years old, evidenced by the deep oxidation and the quality of the finish patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on CITES Appendix II and classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List; FSC certified sources are highly recommended and often required for trade.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, boat building (historic), musical instruments (especially guitar backs and necks), and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Mexico and Central and South America; often plantation-grown in Southeast Asia.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes, sands, and glues exceptionally well, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause minor tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; looks best with a pore-filler followed by nitrocellulose lacquer, shellac, or a high-quality tung oil to enhance depth.
Notable Features
Famous for its dimensional stability and resonant acoustic properties. It has a subtle, characteristic earthy scent when worked.
