Likely figured mahogany, possibly sapele; visual identification is provisional.
Likely Khaya spp. (African mahogany) or Entandrophragma cylindricum (sapele). · Hardwood; tropical/exotic.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; tropical/exotic.
- Origin
- African mahogany grows in tropical Africa; sapele is also native to tropical West and Central Africa.
- Hardness
- About 1,070 lbf for African mahogany (Medium); sapele is about 1,410 lbf (Hard).
- Durability
- Moderately durable to durable; heartwood generally resists decay better than sapwood, with variable insect resistance.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Pronounced wavy, interlocked grain with mottled, ribbon-like figure; likely flat-sawn. End grain is not visible, so cut and species are uncertain.
Color & Appearance
Warm pinkish reddish-brown with darker streaks and moderate luster; color typically deepens with age and light exposure. No clear sapwood boundary is visible.
Hardness (Janka)
About 1,070 lbf for African mahogany (Medium); sapele is about 1,410 lbf (Hard).
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable to durable; heartwood generally resists decay better than sapwood, with variable insect resistance.
Value & Age
Roughly US$8–25 per board foot for common surfaced stock; figured, high-grade boards 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 reliably estimate from this image; surface color and wear alone do not establish age.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, veneers, doors, interior trim, turning, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
African mahogany grows in tropical Africa; sapele is also native to tropical West and Central Africa.
Workability
Generally machines and finishes well, but interlocked grain may tear out during planing; sharp cutters and shallow cuts help. Glue and fasten with standard methods.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and apply a compatible sealer, oil, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first, as grain and color can vary in finish.
Notable Features
Strong chatoyant, mottled figure and reddish-brown color; sapele often has a distinctive ribbon figure and greater density than African mahogany.