
Honduran Mahogany
Swietenia macrophylla · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America, widely planted in tropical regions worldwide.
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, with good resistance to rot and moderate resistance to termites.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a distinct ribbon stripe (or roe figure) visible on the quarter-sawn surface, medium uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Pinkish to reddish-brown heartwood that darkens significantly to a deep rich reddish-brown or antique brown with age and light exposure; yellowish-white sapwood.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, with good resistance to rot and moderate resistance to termites.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 10 to 25 dollars per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, around 10 to 30 years based on the rich oxidation and patina development.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on CITES Appendix II and IUCN vulnerable due to overharvesting; heavily regulated, though plantation-grown sources are available.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (such as acoustic and electric guitars), turning, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America, widely planted in tropical regions worldwide.
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, turns, and finishes very well, though interlocked grain can sometimes cause tearout during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts almost all finishes exceptionally well. Oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and wipe-on polyurethane enhance the natural chatoyancy and deep color.
Notable Features
Possesses a natural golden chatoyancy under light, stability after seasoning, and classic acoustic properties making it premier for instruments.