Honduran Mahogany (Main piece) with Maple inlay (Center piece)
Swietenia macrophylla (Mahogany) and Acer saccharum (Maple) · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Central and South America (for Honduran Mahogany) and Eastern North America (for Sugar Maple).
- Hardness
- Mahogany: 900 lbf (Medium); Maple: 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Mahogany is rated as Durable with good resistance to rot and weathering; Maple is rated as Non-durable to perishable regarding decay.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with characteristic coarse, open-pore texture and prominent ray fleck on the mahogany; straight, fine grain on the contrasting light maple center strip.
Color & Appearance
The outer body features a medium reddish-brown to deep pinkish-brown heartwood with a natural golden sheen and moderate chatoyance that deepens with age and UV exposure. The center inlay strip is a creamy off-white to pale yellow sapwood.
Hardness (Janka)
Mahogany: 900 lbf (Medium); Maple: 1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Mahogany is rated as Durable with good resistance to rot and weathering; Maple is rated as Non-durable to perishable regarding decay.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Mahogany: $10.00 to $20.00 per board foot; Maple: $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly milled to moderately aged (recently worked workshop piece).
- Sustainability Status
- Honduran Mahogany is listed on CITES Appendix II and is IUCN vulnerable, requiring careful sourcing. Maple is abundant and sustainably harvested.
Common Uses
Fine furniture making, boat building, musical instruments, high-end cabinetry, and decorative inlay/accent work.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (for Honduran Mahogany) and Eastern North America (for Sugar Maple).
Workability
Both woods are generally very cooperative. Mahogany cuts, glues, and finishes exceptionally well though open pores may need filling. Maple cuts cleanly with sharp tools but can burn if fed too slowly.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane finishes exceptionally well. A grain filler is recommended on the mahogany for a perfectly smooth glass-like finish.
Notable Features
Mahogany is renowned for its exceptional dimensional stability, natural resistance to rot, and beautiful chatoyancy. Maple provides a striking, high-contrast visual divider.