Likely mahogany; genuine mahogany is the leading possibility, with sapele or another reddish tropical hardwood as alternatives.
Swietenia macrophylla (tentative); alternatives include Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele). · Hardwood; tropical/exotic.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; tropical/exotic.
- Origin
- Genuine mahogany is native to the Americas, from southern Mexico through Central America into northern South America; sapele is native to tropical West and Central Africa.
- Hardness
- Genuine mahogany: about 800 lbf, Soft by the supplied scale. Sapele is about 1,410 lbf, Hard.
- Durability
- Genuine mahogany heartwood is moderately durable; resistance varies by species and exposure. The image cannot establish the sample’s treatment or condition.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, fine, fairly uniform grain on the visible face; no clear figure. End grain is not visible, so cut orientation is uncertain.
Color & Appearance
Even reddish-brown to medium brown with subtle darker streaks and a mild sheen; species and aging cannot be determined reliably from this image.
Hardness (Janka)
Genuine mahogany: about 800 lbf, Soft by the supplied scale. Sapele is about 1,410 lbf, Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Genuine mahogany heartwood is moderately durable; resistance varies by species and exposure. The image cannot establish the sample’s treatment or condition.
Value & Age
Highly variable by species, grade, and sourcing; roughly US$8–25 per board foot for common surfaced stock, with premium material higher.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Not estimable from the photo; no reliable patina, wear, or growth-ring details are visible.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, doors, veneer, boat interiors, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Genuine mahogany is native to the Americas, from southern Mexico through Central America into northern South America; sapele is native to tropical West and Central Africa.
Workability
Mahogany generally machines and sands well, glues readily, and finishes smoothly; sharp tools help avoid fuzzy grain or tearout. Sapele can be harder to machine and may tear along interlocked grain.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and use a compatible clear lacquer, shellac, oil, or polyurethane; test stain on an offcut because color varies.
Notable Features
The sample appears uniformly colored and straight-grained, without obvious defects; mahogany often has a warm luster, while sapele may show ribbon-like stripe figure.
