Mahogany (likely African Mahogany or Honduran Mahogany)
Khaya ivorensis / Swietenia macrophylla · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- West/Central Africa (Khaya) or Tropical Americas (Swietenia)
- Hardness
- 1,070 to 1,370 lbf (Medium to Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; good resistance to decay and fungi, moderate insect resistance
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with fine, open, elongated pore structure typical of face-sawn mahogany
Color & Appearance
Warm reddish-brown to pinkish-tan tone with natural light golden undertones and subtle dark streak accents; darkens naturally upon light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 to 1,370 lbf (Medium to Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; good resistance to decay and fungi, moderate insect resistance
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 to $16.00 per board foot depending on grade, origin, and certification
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern surface with mild oxidation and light surface aging, likely 5-20 years old based on patina and surface condition
- Sustainability Status
- Swietenia species are CITES Appendix II listed; Khaya species categorized as Vulnerable on IUCN Red List; FSC certified sustainably harvested stock is recommended
Common Uses
Furniture making, fine cabinetry, boat interior joinery, architectural millwork, musical instruments (guitars), and decorative veneer
Geographic Origin
West/Central Africa (Khaya) or Tropical Americas (Swietenia)
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, sands, and accepts stains very smoothly; interlocked grain sections require sharp tools to prevent minor tearout
Finish Recommendations
Wipes beautifully with grain fillers, clear lacquers, tung oil, polyurethanes, or shellac; oil finishes enhance its natural rich warm tone and chatoyance
Notable Features
Distinctive reddish-pink heartwood hues, fine porous surface, slight natural chatoyance under direct light, and excellent dimensional stability
