Most likely Honduran mahogany; alternatives include sapele or darkened genuine mahogany. — Swietenia macrophylla

Most likely Honduran mahogany; alternatives include sapele or darkened genuine mahogany.

Swietenia macrophylla · Hardwood; tropical/exotic

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; tropical/exotic
Origin
Native to Central and South America, including Mexico, Amazonia, and the Caribbean region; widely plantation-grown elsewhere.
Hardness
Approximately 900 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; generally resists decay reasonably well, but prolonged exterior exposure can weather it and invite insect damage.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine to medium texture, with subtle interlocking and mild ribbon-like luster; appears flat-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Warm pinkish-brown to reddish-brown heartwood with darker streaks and little visible sapwood. It typically darkens and reddens with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 900 lbf Janka — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; generally resists decay reasonably well, but prolonged exterior exposure can weather it and invite insect damage.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried stock; figured or premium material may 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 be determined reliably from this image; surface wear and oxidation suggest an older finished or handled piece, not necessarily old-growth wood.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, doors, boat interiors, architectural millwork, veneer, carving, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Native to Central and South America, including Mexico, Amazonia, and the Caribbean region; widely plantation-grown elsewhere.

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes easily, with low movement; occasional tearout occurs on interlocked grain, and pores may need filling for a polished surface.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly, optionally fill pores, then use wiping oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; seal end grain carefully for uniform color.

Notable Features

Lightweight for its strength, stable, resonant, and often displays attractive chatoyance. The image also shows knots or filled defects.

Learn more about Most likely Honduran mahogany; alternatives include sapele or darkened genuine mahogany. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 9, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Honduran Mahogany; Alternatives Include Sapele Or Darkened Genuine Mahogany. in the encyclopedia

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