Likely mahogany, possibly Philippine mahogany (lauan); genuine mahogany is an alternative. — Likely Shorea spp. (lauan); alternative: Swietenia macrophylla.

Likely mahogany, possibly Philippine mahogany (lauan); genuine mahogany is an alternative.

Likely Shorea spp. (lauan); alternative: Swietenia macrophylla. · Hardwood; potentially tropical/exotic.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; potentially tropical/exotic.
Origin
Lauan: Southeast Asia. Genuine mahogany: Central and South America and the Caribbean.
Hardness
Cannot be determined from the image. If lauan: roughly 800–1,000 lbf (Soft to Medium); genuine mahogany: about 800 lbf (Soft).
Durability
Species-dependent: lauan ranges from slightly to moderately durable; genuine mahogany is moderately durable. Image alone cannot establish resistance or exact species.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to mildly interlocked grain, with subdued, uneven figuring; the finished surface and glare obscure details and cut orientation.

Color & Appearance

Warm golden to reddish-brown with darker streaks and aged-looking patina; finish and lighting make natural heartwood and sapwood difficult to distinguish. Mahogany often deepens toward reddish-brown with age.

Hardness (Janka)

Cannot be determined from the image. If lauan: roughly 800–1,000 lbf (Soft to Medium); genuine mahogany: about 800 lbf (Soft).

Durability & Decay Resistance

Species-dependent: lauan ranges from slightly to moderately durable; genuine mahogany is moderately durable. Image alone cannot establish resistance or exact species.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Highly variable by species, grade, and location: lauan commonly about US$3–8/board foot; genuine mahogany often about US$8–20+.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Not reliably estimable from a photograph; surface wear and darkening may reflect finish and use rather than wood age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, doors, paneling, and veneer; some mahogany is also used for boats and instruments.

Geographic Origin

Lauan: Southeast Asia. Genuine mahogany: Central and South America and the Caribbean.

Workability

Generally works readily with sharp tools; interlocked grain can tear during planing. Sand progressively and test the finish on an inconspicuous area.

Finish Recommendations

Clean and test before refinishing; lightly sand, then use compatible stain or clear lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane. A sample patch is important because existing finish affects color.

Notable Features

The image shows a glossy, worn finish and dark mottling, but no diagnostic end grain, scent, or clear figure.

Learn more about Likely mahogany, possibly Philippine mahogany (lauan); genuine mahogany is an alternative. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 7, 2026