Quarter-Sawn Sapele
Entandrophragma cylindricum · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
- Hardness
- 1,510 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; generally resistant to rot and termites, though susceptible to marine borers.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain resulting in a distinct 'ribbon-stripe' figure. The sample shows a quarter-sawn orientation with straight, uniform vertical banding.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a golden to dark reddish-brown. It exhibits a high natural lackluster and chatoyance; the color typically darkens and becomes richer with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,510 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; generally resistant to rot and termites, though susceptible to marine borers.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern processing, likely 1-5 years post-milling based on the clean mechanical cut and contemporary screw fastener.
- Sustainability Status
- Vulnerable (IUCN Red List) and listed in CITES Appendix II; FSC certified stock is often available but requires verification.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, boatbuilding, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and sides), and high-end veneer.
Geographic Origin
Tropical Africa (West and Central Africa)
Workability
Generally easy to work, though the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or surfacing. It glues, finishes, and takes screws well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Oil-based finishes enhance the depth of the ribbon stripe chatoyance; pore-filling is recommended for a high-gloss glass-like finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive cedar-like scent when being worked. Often used as a substitute for Mahogany but is harder and heavier.
