Mahogany (Honduras/American or African) — Swietenia macrophylla (or Khaya ivorensis)
Medium-High, based on the characteristic reddish-brown coloration, medium pore texture, and straight grain typical of mahogany. confidence

Mahogany (Honduras/American or African)

Swietenia macrophylla (or Khaya ivorensis) · Hardwood

Type
Hardwood
Origin
Central and South America (for genuine mahogany) or West and Central Africa (for African mahogany).
Hardness
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability
Durable to Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to powder-post beetles.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium texture and moderate natural luster.

Color & Appearance

Medium reddish-brown to deep pinkish-red heartwood that darkens significantly to a rich reddish-brown patina over time with UV exposure. Sapwood is typically a pale yellowish-white and clearly demarcated.

Hardness (Janka)

900 lbf (Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable to Very Durable, with excellent resistance to rot and decay, though susceptible to powder-post beetles.

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value
$8.00 to $15.00+ per board foot depending on grade, width, and whether it is genuine or African mahogany.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated to be moderately aged (several years to a few decades), showing light surface oxidation and minor accumulated surface dust.
Sustainability Status
Genuine mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) is listed on CITES Appendix II and protected, making certified or plantation-grown sources or alternatives like African mahogany preferable.

Common Uses

Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments, veneer, and interior millwork.

Geographic Origin

Central and South America (for genuine mahogany) or West and Central Africa (for African mahogany).

Workability

Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause minor tearout during planing.

Finish Recommendations

Takes almost any finish exceptionally well, including oils, lacquers, shellac, and varnishes, enhancing its natural chatoyance.

Notable Features

Famous for its dimensional stability, distinct reddish hue, chatoyance, and relative ease of carving and shaping.

Learn more about Mahogany (Honduras/American or African) in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 29, 2026