Likely mahogany (genuine/Khaya-type); sapele is a possible alternative. — Swietenia macrophylla (likely); possibly Khaya spp. or Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele).

Likely mahogany (genuine/Khaya-type); sapele is a possible alternative.

Swietenia macrophylla (likely); possibly Khaya spp. or Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele). · Hardwood; potentially tropical/exotic.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; potentially tropical/exotic.
Origin
Genuine mahogany is native to the tropical Americas; Khaya and sapele alternatives are African.
Hardness
About 800 lbf for genuine mahogany—Soft by the user’s scale; alternatives vary (sapele about 1,410 lbf, Hard).
Durability
Moderately durable; genuine mahogany has reasonable decay resistance, while species and heartwood/sapwood make a significant difference.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine-to-medium grain with subtle darker streaks; the pictured face does not show enough detail to determine cut or figure.

Color & Appearance

Muted reddish-brown face with slight tonal variation. Lighting and finish are unclear; mahogany commonly deepens and warms with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

About 800 lbf for genuine mahogany—Soft by the user’s scale; alternatives vary (sapele about 1,410 lbf, Hard).

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; genuine mahogany has reasonable decay resistance, while species and heartwood/sapwood make a significant difference.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Highly species-, grade-, and location-dependent; roughly $8–$25+ per board foot for common mahogany lumber, with premium grades costing more.

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 estimate reliably from this image; no clear patina, wear, or end-grain evidence is visible.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, trim, doors, veneer, carving, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Genuine mahogany is native to the tropical Americas; Khaya and sapele alternatives are African.

Workability

Generally works and finishes well; sharp tools help avoid tearout, especially with interlocked grain. Pre-drill near edges for screws.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and use a clear oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first, as color and absorption vary by species and finish.

Notable Features

The smooth, reddish-brown appearance is consistent with mahogany, but the photograph lacks visible pores, end grain, and scale needed to distinguish lookalikes.

Learn more about Likely mahogany (genuine/Khaya-type); sapele is a possible alternative. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 25, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Likely Mahogany (Genuine/khaya-type); Sapele Is A Possible Alternative. in the encyclopedia

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