Mahogany
Color Range
Heartwood ranges from a pale pinkish-brown to a deep reddish-brown. It is famous for chatoyancy, an optical effect where the wood's luster shifts when viewed from different angles. Unlike many woods that fade, mahogany is celebrated for developing a darker, richer reddish sheen over time when exposed to light.
Grain
Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla): Also known as Honduran or Big-Leaf Mahogany, this is the historical "gold standard". It is prized for its fine grain and remarkable resistance to warping and shrinking. African Mahogany (Khaya ivorensis): The most widely used commercial alternative in 2026. It is generally harder (Janka: 1,070 lbf) than genuine mahogany and features a more lustrous, often interlocked grain that produces a ribbon-like figure. Philippine Mahogany (Meranti/Lauan): Not a true mahogany (genus Shorea), these species are often marketed as such for their similar appearance. They are typically less stable and softer than genuine or African varieties.
Texture
Texture info here.
Other Names
Other names here.
Typical Uses
Fine Furniture: High-end tables, chairs, and heirloom cabinetry. Musical Instruments: A premier "tonewood" for acoustic guitar backs, sides, and necks due to its warm, resonant acoustic properties. Marine Use: Traditionally used for boatbuilding and luxury yacht interiors because of its natural rot resistance.
Weight
2.58
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lbs /Bd. Ft. | -27.93% lighter than red oak (3.58 /bd. ft.)
Hardness
801
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Janka Rating | -37.91% softer than red oak (1290 psi)
Density
0.59
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Specific Gravity | -7.81% less dense than red oak (.64)
Strength, Stability, and Durability
Durability: Highly resistant to rot, moisture changes, and insects like dry wood termites. Stability: Mahogany is exceptionally stable; it has a very low shrinkage rate, meaning it is less likely to twist, bow, or crack compared to other hardwoods.
Workability / Finishing
Workability: It is considered one of the most "cooperative" hardwoods, making it a favorite for intricate carvings, fine joinery, and turnery.