Honduran Mahogany
Swietenia macrophylla · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to Southern Mexico and Central and South America; also widely grown on plantations in Southeast Asia.
- Hardness
- 800 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot and termites, with excellent stability and resistance to warping or shrinking.
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Grain Pattern
Primarily straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine, uniform texture. This specific sample shows a subtle ribbon-stripe figure on the flat-sawn drawer faces.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a pale pinkish brown to a dark reddish brown. It exhibits a distinct golden luster and chatoyancy under light. This piece has a deep, aged patina likely enhanced by a dark mahogany stain, showing characteristic darkening over time.
Hardness (Janka)
800 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot and termites, with excellent stability and resistance to warping or shrinking.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 - $25.00 per board foot for genuine Honduran material depending on grade and figuring.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The furniture style (serpentine front/Chippendale influence) and hardware suggest a vintage piece, likely mid-20th century (40-70 years old) based on the oxidation and finish wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed in CITES Appendix II and on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable. Ethical sourcing requires CITES permits; FSC-certified plantation mahogany is generally preferred.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (guitars), boat building, and fine veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Mexico and Central and South America; also widely grown on plantations in Southeast Asia.
Workability
Excellent workability. One of the best woods for hand tools and machining. It sands easily, glues well, and takes stains and finishes exceptionally. Interlocked grain can occasionally cause minor tearout.
Finish Recommendations
Traditionally finished with shellac (French polish) or nitrocellulose lacquer. High-quality paste waxes or penetrating oils are also recommended to highlight the internal luster.
Notable Features
Features a faint, pleasant odor when being worked. Known for its incredible dimensional stability and historical prestige in traditional cabinetry. Moderately light weight compared to its strength.
