Mahogany (specifically African Mahogany)
Khaya ivorensis · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Tropical West Africa
- Hardness
- 830 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot/decay but is susceptible to insect attack compared to Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain, which is typical for the Khaya genus, resulting in a coarse texture with noticeable ribbon-stripe figure when quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with visible gold/copper luster. Sapwood is typically pale yellow. Wood darkens significantly upon exposure to light and oxygen, developing a deep, rich patina over time.
Hardness (Janka)
830 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot/decay but is susceptible to insect attack compared to Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The board appears freshly milled or planed based on the sharp edges and lack of deep surface oxidation, likely under 1-2 years since processing.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as vulnerable due to habitat loss and overexploitation; not currently CITES listed but widely available as FSC certified.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, veneering, interior trim, boat building, and increasingly popular for acoustic guitar bodies and necks.
Geographic Origin
Tropical West Africa
Workability
Generally easy to work with tools, though the interlocked grain can cause significant tearout during planing or jointing. Glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) which highlight the grain depth. Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for high-wear surfaces like furniture tops.
Notable Features
Features a distinct chatoyance (shimmer) when finished. Small amounts of silica can occasionally dull cutters. It is lighter in weight than many other tropical hardwoods of similar appearance.
