Medium-High; identified by reddish-brown hue, diffuse-porous structure visible on the raw veneer surface, typical interlocked fiber tearout on the veneer edge, and characteristic grain texture confidence

Sapele (alternatives: African Mahogany, Genuine Mahogany)

Entandrophragma cylindricum · Hardwood / Exotic

Type: Hardwood / Exotic
Origin: Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
Hardness: 1,410 lbf (Hard)
Durability: Moderately Durable to Durable; offers good natural resistance to decay and insect attack, though vulnerable to marine borers

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Grain Pattern

Interlocked grain producing a fine, uniform texture with characteristic ribbon stripe figure on quartersawn surfaces

Color & Appearance

Medium reddish-brown heartwood with golden to dark brown undertones; tends to darken slightly upon exposure to light; displays natural luster and subtle chatoyance

Hardness (Janka)

1,410 lbf (Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable to Durable; offers good natural resistance to decay and insect attack, though vulnerable to marine borers

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value: $10.00 to $18.00 per board foot for raw lumber; $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot for veneer
Wood Age Estimate: Freshly sliced veneer or freshly rough-sawn lumber sample, typically cut within the past 1-5 years
Sustainability Status: IUCN Red List status is Vulnerable due to overexploitation; CITES Appendix II listed depending on regional harvest limits; FSC-certified sources available

Common Uses

Furniture making, architectural millwork, cabinetry, high-end veneer, boat building, and acoustic/electric guitar backs and sides

Geographic Origin

Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)

Workability

Generally works well with hand and power tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing; blunts cutters moderately; glues, screws, and finishes exceptionally well