Honduran Mahogany
Swietenia macrophylla · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Neotropics, ranging from southern Mexico through Central America into South America (Amazon basin).
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine to medium uniform texture, featuring ribbon or stripe figure when quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Pinkish to reddish-brown heartwood that darkens significantly to a deep rich reddish-brown or brownish-red patina with age and exposure to light, contrasted by a narrow yellowish-white sapwood.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 10 to 30 years old based on the stable patina and modern construction hardware.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on CITES Appendix II and classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN; tightly regulated with limited certified plantation availability.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments, veneer, turnings, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Neotropics, ranging from southern Mexico through Central America into South America (Amazon basin).
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, turns, finishes, and carves remarkably well with minimal dulling of cutters.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, lacquers, and varnishes exceptionally well without requiring special grain fillers or extensive preparation.
Notable Features
Possesses a natural dimensional stability, chatoyancy under finishes, resistance to rot, and moderate weight.
