Genuine Mahogany (Honduran Mahogany)
Swietenia macrophylla • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a diffuse-porous structure and medium-sized vessels that appear as dark striations.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from a pale pinkish brown to a darker reddish brown. Color tends to darken and redden with age; shows a distinct golden luster and chatoyancy when finished.
Hardness Rating
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; rated as very durable regarding decay resistance and moderately resistant to termites and other insects.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and necks), veneer, and high-end joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to Central and South America; widely grown on plantations in Southeast Asia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut; appearance suggests a kiln-dried board with fresh surfacing, likely less than 5 years since harvesting.
Sustainability Status
CITES Appendix II listed; IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable. FSC certified sources are preferred but often limited.
Workability
Excellent. Works well with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well. Interlocked grain may occasionally cause tearout during planing.
Notable Features
Often considered the gold standard for wood stability. It lacks a strong scent and is a known sensitizer for some users, causing skin or respiratory irritation.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain wood filler is optional for a glass-smooth surface. Responds beautifully to tung oil, shellac, or high-gloss lacquer to highlight chatoyancy.
Identification Confidence
High. The pinkish-brown hue, characteristic vessel line distribution, and uniform medium texture are classic indicators of Swietenia species.