Mahogany (African or Honduran likely)
Khaya spp. or Swietenia macrophylla • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and straight grain mix, presenting a characteristic ribbon-stripe figure on quarter-sawn surfaces with uniform medium texture and visible open pores.
Color Description
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with a golden-orange undertone. It shows moderate luster and will darken significantly to a deeper, richer reddish-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
830 - 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; good resistance to decay and rot, though African species vary more than American mahogany. Heartwood is resistant to termites.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (guitars), veneer, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
West and Central Africa (Khaya) or Central and South America (Swietenia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on specific species and figure quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Secondary manufactured product, likely 10-30 years old based on the finish wear and oxidation of the grain visible through the topcoat.
Sustainability Status
Swietenia is CITES Appendix II listed. African Mahogany (Khaya) is often IUCN Red List Vulnerable; FSC certification is available but requires verification.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Features a distinct chatoyance (play of light) and is highly stable once seasoned. Known for excellent acoustic properties and a faint, cedar-like scent when freshly cut.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability in furniture. Oil-based finishes enhance the natural chatoyance and grain depth.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the pore structure, color, and ribbon-like grain are indicative of true Mahogany or a Meliaceae family substitute like Sapele, though the lack of heavy stipple suggests Khaya/Swietenia.