Honduran Mahogany (or African Mahogany/Sapele alternative)
Swietenia macrophylla (or Entandrophragma cylindricum) · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central and South America (for Swietenia) or Tropical West Africa (for Sapele/Khaya species).
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable. High resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to subterranean termites unless treated.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain showing pronounced golden ribbon figure, optical chatoyance, and moderate diffuse-porous vessel streaks.
Color & Appearance
Golden honey to reddish-brown hue with medium luster and strong chatoyance. Heartwood naturally darkens over time with light exposure to a richer reddish amber.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable. High resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to subterranean termites unless treated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot for solid lumber; standard veneer sheets vary based on match quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Matured finish, likely 10-30 years old based on the warm amber patina, topcoat aging, and faint surface character marks.
- Sustainability Status
- CITES Appendix II listed (Swietenia macrophylla); FSC certified sources and plantation-grown timber available.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, musical instruments (guitars), boat interiors, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (for Swietenia) or Tropical West Africa (for Sapele/Khaya species).
Workability
Excellent workability with hand and machine tools. Interlocked grain can cause minor tearout during planing if cuts are made against the grain.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-grain filling can highlight pore structure; finishes exceptionally well with wiped oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane topcoats.
Notable Features
Features distinct optical chatoyance, excellent dimensional stability, low shrinkage rate, and classic ribbon-stripe figure when quartersawn.
