Genuine Mahogany
Swietenia macrophylla · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Central and South America; widely cultivated in plantations across tropical regions worldwide
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable; high resistance to rot, termites, and wood-boring insects; excellent weathering characteristics
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked, uniform medium texture with visible vessel lines
Color & Appearance
Pinkish-brown to reddish-brown heartwood that darkens with age to a deep mahogany red; yellowish-white sapwood is distinct; displays golden luster and chatoyance
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; high resistance to rot, termites, and wood-boring insects; excellent weathering characteristics
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on figure and width
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber; likely kiln-dried and harvested within the last 5-10 years based on light surface oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Listed in CITES Appendix II and IUCN Red List as Vulnerable; FSC certification is available and recommended for sustainability
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitars), veneer, and fine millwork
Geographic Origin
Central and South America; widely cultivated in plantations across tropical regions worldwide
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well; slight interlocked grain can cause minor tearout during planing
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to oils and lacquers; grain filler is recommended if a glass-smooth high-gloss finish is desired
Notable Features
Distinguished by its extreme dimensional stability and lack of typical "wood" odor; known for its historical prestige in traditional furniture making
