Mahogany (likely African or Philippine/Luan)
Khaya spp. or Shorea spp. • Hardwood / Exotic
Grain Pattern
Interlocked, wavy, and ribbon-like grain; moderately coarse texture with visible vessel lines
Color Description
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with cream-colored sapwood. Natural luster is moderate; wood typically darkens to a deep reddish-brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
830 - 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot but susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, carving, reproduction antiques, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
West and Central Africa (Khaya) or Southeast Asia (Shorea)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $12.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years based on the style of carving, darkening of the finish in crevices, and moderate oxidation of the raw surface.
Sustainability Status
Khaya is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List; limited CITES Appendix II listings for some species.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause fuzzy surfaces or tearout during planing if tools aren't sharp.
Notable Features
Distinctive reddish hue, relatively lightweight for a hardwood, and famous for its 'ribbon' figure when quarter-sawn.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well. A grain filler is often recommended for a smooth glassy finish; Danish oil or lacquer is ideal to highlight chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the color, grain texture, and carving style are highly characteristic of commercial mahogany used in furniture manufacturing.