Genuine Mahogany (Honduran Mahogany)
Swietenia macrophylla • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a medium texture; shows subtle ribbon-stripe figure common in quarter-sawn sections
Color Description
Heartwood is a classic reddish-brown. It shows moderate luster and a noticeable darkening (patina) over time with UV exposure. Sapwood is yellowish-white and clearly demarcated.
Hardness Rating
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; excellent resistance to termites and rot, though not as resistant as teak or ipe to marine borers.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and necks), and fine veneers.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America; widely grown on plantations in Southeast Asia (Fiji, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on width and grain figure.
Wood Age Estimate
5-15 years post-processing based on the level of oxidation and surface wear appearing in the grain texture.
Sustainability Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II; vulnerable status on the IUCN Red List. FSC-certified plantation mahogany is generally preferred for sustainability.
Workability
Excellent workability; easy to machine and plane, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause tearout. Glues and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Famous for its dimensional stability and chatoyance. It lacks a strong characteristic scent but is known for its acoustic warmth in instruments.
Finish Recommendations
Deepens beautifully with oil-based finishes; polyurethane or lacquer provides high durability. A grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth surface is desired due to open pores.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-brown color, characteristic open pore structure, and subtle ribbon grain are hallmark identifiers of Swietenia species.