Mahogany (African or Honduran likely)
Khaya spp. or Swietenia macrophylla · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- West and Central Africa (Khaya) or Central and South America (Swietenia).
- Hardness
- 830 - 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Durable; good resistance to decay and rot, though African species vary more than American mahogany. Heartwood is resistant to termites.
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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 & Appearance
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 (Janka)
830 - 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; good resistance to decay and rot, though African species vary more than American mahogany. Heartwood is resistant to termites.
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.
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).
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability in furniture. Oil-based finishes enhance the natural chatoyance and grain depth.
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.
