Likely genuine Mahogany, possibly Honduran Mahogany; alternatives include Sapele or African Mahogany. — Swietenia macrophylla; alternatives: Entandrophragma cylindricum or Khaya spp.

Likely genuine Mahogany, possibly Honduran Mahogany; alternatives include Sapele or African Mahogany.

Swietenia macrophylla; alternatives: Entandrophragma cylindricum or Khaya spp. · Hardwood; tropical/exotic.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; tropical/exotic.
Origin
Native mainly to Central and South America, including Mexico, Brazil, and Bolivia; plantation-grown elsewhere.
Hardness
Approximately 900 lbf Janka—Medium hardness.
Durability
Moderately durable; generally good resistance to decay and insects, though performance varies by species and exposure.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to mildly interlocked grain with fine, diffuse texture and attractive ribbon-like chatoyance; likely flat-sawn boards.

Color & Appearance

Reddish-brown heartwood with darker streaking and little visible sapwood. It commonly deepens to a warm red-brown with light exposure and has a moderate natural luster.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 900 lbf Janka—Medium hardness.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; generally good resistance to decay and insects, though performance varies by species and exposure.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $10–$25 per board foot for common genuine mahogany; figured or wide premium stock may exceed $30.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably dated from a photograph; the glossy, uniform surface suggests finished material rather than age-related patina.

Common Uses

High-end furniture, cabinetry, doors, architectural millwork, veneers, boat interiors, guitars, and turning.

Geographic Origin

Native mainly to Central and South America, including Mexico, Brazil, and Bolivia; plantation-grown elsewhere.

Workability

Generally easy to machine, plane, sand, glue, and finish; interlocked grain can cause localized tear-out, and silica or mineral deposits may dull cutters.

Finish Recommendations

Use a clear oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane after thorough sanding; a wash coat or sealer can help equalize absorption and emphasize figure.

Notable Features

Lightweight for its strength, dimensionally stable, warm-toned, and capable of pronounced chatoyance after polishing.

Learn more about Likely genuine Mahogany, possibly Honduran Mahogany; alternatives include Sapele or African Mahogany. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 10, 2026