Genuine Mahogany (Honduran Mahogany)
Swietenia macrophylla · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Central and South America (Mexico to Brazil)
- Hardness
- 900 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, though only moderately resistant to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium texture; displays a faint ribbon-stripe figure. The face shows characteristic fine, dark reddish-brown pore streaks.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood varies from a pale pinkish-brown to a darker reddish-brown. It exhibits a high natural luster and significant chatoyance; the color typically darkens and becomes richer over time with exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
900 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and decay, though only moderately resistant to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, likely kiln-dried and processed within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of deep oxidation and clean machine surfacing.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on CITES Appendix II and classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List; plantation-grown sources are available but strictly regulated.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and necks), pattern making, and fine veneers.
Geographic Origin
Central and South America (Mexico to Brazil)
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, and sands very easily, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause minor tearout. Glues and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to any finish. A simple oil finish highlights chatoyance, while grain filler followed by lacquer or shellac provides a traditional high-gloss 'piano' finish.
Notable Features
Lacks a strong scent when dry; known for its incredible stability and 'gold standard' status in woodworking for its ratio of strength to weight. Dust can be a mild respiratory irritant.
