Likely mahogany; alternatives include sapele or dark-stained oak. — Swietenia macrophylla (likely; alternatives: Entandrophragma cylindricum or Quercus spp.)

Likely mahogany; alternatives include sapele or dark-stained oak.

Swietenia macrophylla (likely; alternatives: Entandrophragma cylindricum or Quercus spp.) · Hardwood; potentially exotic/tropical.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; potentially exotic/tropical.
Origin
Mahogany is native to tropical Central and South America; plantation and commercial supplies also come from Asia and Oceania.
Hardness
Approximately 800–1,070 lbf Janka, depending on species; Soft to Medium. Sapele is harder, around 1,410 lbf.
Durability
Moderately Durable to Durable; genuine mahogany has useful resistance to decay and insects, though surface condition and finish affect performance.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to gently interlocked, with fine, moderately even texture and subdued ribbon-like figure; appears flat-sawn or plain-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Warm reddish-brown to golden-brown heartwood with darker streaking and moderate luster; mahogany typically deepens and reddens with light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 800–1,070 lbf Janka, depending on species; Soft to Medium. Sapele is harder, around 1,410 lbf.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable to Durable; genuine mahogany has useful resistance to decay and insects, though surface condition and finish affect performance.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly $8–$20+ per board foot for common genuine mahogany; figured or verified premium stock can 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
Cannot be reliably estimated from this single finished image; apparent darkening may reflect finish or oxidation rather than age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, doors, trim, boat interiors, musical instruments, veneers, and turning.

Geographic Origin

Mahogany is native to tropical Central and South America; plantation and commercial supplies also come from Asia and Oceania.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though interlocked grain can tear out during planing; sharp cutters are recommended.

Finish Recommendations

Seal and apply shellac, lacquer, oil, or clear polyurethane; sanding to 180–220 grit enhances figure, while grain filler can produce a glass-smooth surface.

Notable Features

Stable, resonant, moderately lightweight, and often displaying attractive reddish chatoyance; this image lacks diagnostic end-grain detail.

Learn more about Likely mahogany; alternatives include sapele or dark-stained oak. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 10, 2026