Mahogany (likely a true mahogany or a close substitute like Sapele or Khaya)
Swietenia spp. (True Mahogany), Entandrophragma cylindricum (Sapele), or Khaya spp. (African Mahogany) · Hardwood / Exotic/Tropical
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central/South America (True Mahogany) or West/Central Africa (Sapele, African Mahogany)
- Hardness
- 800 - 1500 lbf (Soft to Hard, depending on the exact species)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable. Generally resistant to rot and termites, though this varies slightly between true mahoganies and African variants.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a fine to medium texture. Shows prominent pores and ray flecks typical of a quarter or rift-sawn tropical hardwood.
Color & Appearance
Reddish-brown to pale brown. Has a natural luster and chatoyance that shifts in the light, common in mahogany-type woods.
Hardness (Janka)
800 - 1500 lbf (Soft to Hard, depending on the exact species)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable. Generally resistant to rot and termites, though this varies slightly between true mahoganies and African variants.
Value & Age
$6 to $15+ per board foot, heavily dependent on the exact species and figuring.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Difficult to determine from this image, but it appears to be rough-sawn or partially milled wood, relatively fresh or unstained.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments, veneer, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Central/South America (True Mahogany) or West/Central Africa (Sapele, African Mahogany)
Workability
Generally excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Interlocked grain (like in Sapele) can sometimes cause tearout during planing. Sands and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes very well. Oils, polyurethanes, and lacquers enhance the natural luster and depth of the grain. Pore filling may be desired for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
High chatoyance, excellent dimensional stability, and a distinct ribbon-stripe figure when quartersawn.
