Mahogany (African or Honduran)
Khaya ivorensis (African Mahogany) or Swietenia macrophylla (Honduran Mahogany) • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Primarily straight with sections of interlocked grain causing subtle ribbon stripe; coarse texture with open pores visible as long vessel lines.
Color Description
Pale pinkish-brown to medium reddish-brown. The heartwood will darken significantly to a rich, deep reddish-brown over time with UV exposure. Moderately high natural luster.
Hardness Rating
830-1,070 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; good resistance to rot and fungal decay, though susceptibility to insect attack varies by specific species.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, boat building, musical instruments (especially guitar backs and necks), veneer, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
West and Tropical Africa (Khaya) or Central and South America (Swietenia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on specific species and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent milling; the light color suggests a fresh cut that has not yet undergone significant oxidation or UV darkening typical of antique mahogany.
Sustainability Status
Khaya is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN; Swietenia macrophylla is CITES Appendix II listed and Vulnerable. FSC certification is available but limited.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Gluing and finishing are excellent.
Notable Features
Distinctive cedar-like scent when freshly cut; excellent dimensional stability; long prized for its strength-to-weight ratio and acoustic resonance.
Finish Recommendations
Requires grain filler if a glass-smooth surface is desired. Responds beautifully to oil-based finishes, lacquer, and shellac which highlight its natural chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of large, open vessels, pinkish-brown hue, and ribbon-like grain structure is characteristic of the Meliaceae family (mahoganies).