Mango Wood (alternate possibility: Acacia or Sheesham / Indian Rosewood)
Mangifera indica · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to South Asia (predominantly India and Southeast Asia), widely cultivated in tropical regions worldwide.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Moderately Durable; susceptible to moisture damage, fungi, and insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked, curly, and irregular grain pattern with prominent flame figure, cathedral arching, and wild color swaths. Diffuse-porous texture with coarse to medium surface field.
Color & Appearance
Highly varied tones ranging from pale golden-cream and straw-colored sapwood to medium-brown and dark grayish-black streaks in the heartwood. Displays subtle chatoyance and natural luster under light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Moderately Durable; susceptible to moisture damage, fungi, and insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 - $9.00 per board foot for solid lumber; often sold in finished rustic import furniture pieces.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern production furniture (5-15 years old), harvested from mature fruit-bearing trees (typically 20-30 years old prior to lumber processing).
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; harvested as a byproduct of the mango fruit industry after trees stop bearing productive fruit. Not listed on CITES Appendices or IUCN Red List.
Common Uses
Furniture (tables, sideboards, desks), decorative bowls, cabinetry, panelling, turned objects, and rustic home decor.
Geographic Origin
Native to South Asia (predominantly India and Southeast Asia), widely cultivated in tropical regions worldwide.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high silica content can cause dulling of blades. Interlocked grain may cause occasional tearout during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts oils, waxes, polyurethanes, and lacquers exceptionally well. A clear natural oil (like Danish or Tung oil) or clear coat highlights the chatoyance and rich color contrast.
Notable Features
Distinctive streakiness and wide color variation within a single board. Relatively lightweight compared to traditional dense hardwoods while maintaining good structural strength.
