Mahogany (likely African or South American)
Khaya ivorensis (African) or Swietenia macrophylla (Honduran) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked, fine-textured grain with a slight ribbon figure and uniform straightness in this specific cut
Color Description
Reddish-brown heartwood with golden-orange undertones; exhibits high chatoyance and luster. Tends to darken and become more rich with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
830 to 1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; generally resistant to rot but sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (guitar backs/sides), and luxury veneers.
Geographic Origin
West Africa (Khaya) or Central and South America (Swietenia)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible patina and uniform oxidation suggest a finished piece that is 5-15 years old, likely part of a furniture surface.
Sustainability Status
Swietenia is CITES Appendix II listed and vulnerable; Khaya is on the IUCN Red List as vulnerable. FSC certified sources are preferred.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues and finishes excellently.
Notable Features
Famous for its stability and chatoyance (light-reflecting quality). Produces a mild, pleasant scent when worked; dust can be an irritant.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss lacquer or oil-based polyurethane to enhance depth; shellac is also excellent for traditional furniture.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The coloring, uniform pore structure, and characteristic shimmer are classic indicators of the Meliaceae family, specifically Mahogany.