Mahogany (African)
Khaya ivorensis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked, displaying a typical straight-to-slightly-wavy pattern with a coarse texture and medium-sized open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood is light pinkish-brown to a deeper reddish-brown. It often exhibits a natural gold-like luster and chatoyance (ribbon stripe) when quarter-sawn. Colors darken significantly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; vulnerable to some insect attacks but generally resistant to heartwood rot.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (mostly guitar backs/necks), and interior trim/veneers.
Geographic Origin
West, Central, and East Africa (tropical rainforests).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $7.50 - $12.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be modern rough-sawn lumber, likely kiln-dried and harvested within the last 5-10 years based on minimal oxidation and fresh surface color.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List; not currently CITES protected but often available as FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though interlocked grain can cause tear-out during planing. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Often lacks a distinct scent compared to Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia). It has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than many other tropical woods and is known for its excellent stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or shellac to enhance chatoyance. A grain filler is often recommended if a glass-smooth high-gloss tabletop finish is desired due to its open-pore structure.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-pink hue, combined with the visible vessel structure and interlocked surface texture, is characteristic of Khaya species common in timber markets.