Most likely figured mahogany; alternatives include sapele or African mahogany.
Swietenia macrophylla (likely); alternatives Entandrophragma cylindricum or Khaya spp. · Hardwood; potentially Exotic/Tropical.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; potentially Exotic/Tropical.
- Origin
- Mahogany: tropical Central and South America; sapele: West and Central Africa.
- Hardness
- About 900 lbf Janka, Medium (genuine big-leaf mahogany); sapele is harder, about 1,410 lbf.
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; generally good decay resistance, though species and exposure strongly affect performance.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to gently wavy grain with attractive ribbon-like chatoyance; likely veneer or highly figured solid stock. No clear end grain is visible.
Color & Appearance
Warm reddish-brown to orange-brown heartwood with darker streaking and strong luster; typically deepens and reddens with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
About 900 lbf Janka, Medium (genuine big-leaf mahogany); sapele is harder, about 1,410 lbf.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; generally good decay resistance, though species and exposure strongly affect performance.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$20 per board foot for attractive mahogany; figured or verified antique material may cost more.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The board appears finish-coated and handled, but visible wear cannot reliably establish age; likely years to decades rather than freshly milled.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, doors, boat interiors, musical instruments, architectural millwork, veneer, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Mahogany: tropical Central and South America; sapele: West and Central Africa.
Workability
Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well; interlocked figure can cause localized tearout, and silica or dull tooling may increase wear in sapele.
Finish Recommendations
Sand carefully through fine grits, seal porous areas, then use lacquer, shellac, oil, or clear polyurethane; a clear finish best reveals the figure.
Notable Features
Excellent dimensional stability, warm reflective luster, and pronounced chatoyance under finish; the image does not show diagnostic pores or end grain.
