Honduran Mahogany
Swietenia macrophylla • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight to slightly interlocked grain with medium-to-large pores; displays characteristic ribbon figure and subtle cathedral patterns on the side panels.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from a light pinkish brown to a deep reddish brown. It displays high natural luster and chatoyance, darkening significantly over time with light exposure to a rich deep red-brown.
Hardness Rating
800 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and termites, with extremely high dimensional stability.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (especially guitars), boat building, veneer, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (Mexico to Brazil); also grown on plantations in Fiji and Southeast Asia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot for genuine stock; higher for figured pieces.
Wood Age Estimate
The furniture piece appears to be 20 to 50 years old based on the oxidation of the finish and the style of the moldings.
Sustainability Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II and on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable; trade is strictly regulated.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues and finishes very well, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause tearout during surfacing.
Notable Features
Often considered the gold standard for cabinetmaking due to its stability and ease of sanding; lacks a distinct odor when seasoned but has a faint sweet scent when cut.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for high-gloss lacquer, shellac (French polish), or oils which highlight its natural chatoyance and grain depth.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the ribbon-like grain, reddish-brown oxidation, and the specific pore structure visible in the side panel are definitive for Swietenia mahogany used in traditional furniture.