African Mahogany
Khaya ivorensis · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 830 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, though susceptible to marine borers and some insect attacks if left untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture, often showing a natural ribbon stripe or chatoyant figure when quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood ranges from a pale pinkish-brown to a deeper reddish-brown, darkening significantly to a rich reddish-brown over time with exposure to light. Sapwood is typically a distinct pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
830 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable. Good resistance to decay, though susceptible to marine borers and some insect attacks if left untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 6.00 to 12.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recently milled (under 5 years old), given the lack of deep surface oxidation and raw, unsealed condition.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable due to over-harvesting in its native range. FSC-certified sources can be found but require careful verification.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, interior millwork, veneer, turning, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Tropical West Africa
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause tearout during planing requiring a reduced cutting angle.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes exceptionally well. A grain filler may be desired for a perfectly smooth, high-gloss glass-like finish due to the open pores.
Notable Features
Exhibits a distinct natural chatoyancy and ribbon figure when viewed from certain angles. Contains moderate silica content which can have a dulling effect on cutting edges over long periods.
