Receiving Helpdesk

mahogany properties and uses

by Cristal Ritchie Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago

Mahogany Wood Uses

  1. Flooring. Mahogany wood is known for its hardness and long life with beauty. ...
  2. Plywood Veneers. Due to its good grain and density, it is used to make veneer sheets. ...
  3. Boats. It is easy to choose wood for homes and other construction projects. ...
  4. Jewelry Box. Look, Matter, Mahogany wood is used to making jewelry boxes. ...

Mahogany is a commercially important lumber prized for its beauty, durability, and color, and used for paneling and to make furniture, boats, musical instruments and other items.

Full Answer

Is mahogany a good wood?

Mahogany Wood Advantages 1. Mahogany Wood is Very Strong. Mahogany wood is very strong, which makes it a good choice for projects that are expensive. It’s also a popular choice because because of the type of wood it is. The wood is known for being strong, so this alone gives it an advantage. 2. Mahogany Wood is Durable

Is mahogany a hardwood?

Mahogany is a straight- grained, reddish-brown timber of three tropical hardwood species of the genus Swietenia, indigenous to the Americas and part of the pantropical chinaberry family, Meliaceae. Mahogany is used commercially for a wide variety of goods, due to its coloring and durable nature.

How much does mahogany lumber cost?

Why Mahogany Is Expensive Mahogany is sometimes sold by the board foot, and prices can average $6 to $28 or more per piece. This is about 10 times more than comparable furniture-grade woods.

Where to buy mahogany wood?

Width

  • 11" to 15" (2)
  • 16" to 20" (1)
  • 21" to 25" (1)

What are the properties of mahogany?

Known for its straight grain and characteristic red brown colour, it polishes and oils very well and can be buffed to a very high shine. An exceptionally durable hardwood, it is the ideal choice for furniture and fittings around the home.

What are the advantages of mahogany wood?

Mahogany is harder than other woods like oak, pine, etc. In fact, it is 70% more stable and harder than other varieties of woods. Its properties of hardness and durability having no grooves or pockets make it water-resistant and scratch-free too.

Why is mahogany wood illegal?

Following the path of ivory, in 2003, mahogany was listed on the Convention on Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) as a species in need of strict regulation to prevent its extinction. Because Peruvian mahogany is traded in violation of CITES, it is illegal to trade or possess it under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.

Why is mahogany wood so expensive?

Mahogany is so expensive because it has a high demand and is becoming increasingly hard to acquire. The high demand of Mahogany is due to its pleasing appearance, dark fine grain, and long lasting durability. Mahogany has also become more scarce leading to a lack of supply and higher prices.

Is mahogany water resistant?

Mahogany stands up extremely well to water and is even used to make boats. It resists welling, shrinking and warping very well. Due to its ability to withstand wear and water, as well as its rich, natural reddish-brown color, it is an expensive option.

What is the strongest wood?

Generally acknowledged as the hardest wood, lignum vitae (Guaiacum sanctum and Guaiacum officinale) measures in at 4,500 pounds-force (lbf) on the Janka scale.

How much is a mahogany tree worth?

Mahogany is sometimes sold by the board foot, and prices can average $6 to $28 or more per piece. This is about 10 times more than comparable furniture-grade woods.

Is it illegal to own mahogany?

"This wood is illegal as a matter of both U.S. and international law. It is illegal to trade in it, to import it, and to possess it. Even so, the Bush administration has done nothing to stop Peruvian mahogany from entering the country," said Carroll Muffett, director of Defenders of Wildlife's International Program.

Why is mahogany bad for the environment?

It won't share its position in the food chain and if you don't like it, GTFO. It just so happens that soil with a serving of acidity that Mahogany loves so much isn't so good for other organisms. This makes them very invasive and able to choke out other plants.

Is mahogany stronger than oak?

Mahogany is a hardwood, it is harder and more durable than oak, but softer than maple.

What is the most expensive wood in the world?

Topping the list of most expensive woods in the world is Bocote, a flowering plant from the borage family that is mostly found in Mexico, Central and South America. Initially a yellow/brown shade, this wood darkens over time.

Is mahogany stronger than pine?

Is Mahogany Stronger than Pine? Mahogany is nearly 70% stronger than white Pine. But yellow Pine is slightly stronger than Mahogany. Surprisingly, even though Pine wood is considered a softwood, its strength can compete well against the strongest hardwoods like Mahogany.

Where is mahogany used?

Mahogany widely uses in the furniture industry to make amazing durable projects. Mahogany trees are mainly found in America. But due to its rich properties, This is spread and used all over the world to build applications.

Why is mahogany so popular?

It is popular because of its beauty, durability, and color. It uses in furniture, boats, musical instruments, flooring veneers, and other items. Mahogany can be carved with intricate details. It has a rich color with an attractive grain and beautiful stains. Mahogany was first imported to Europe in 1724.

What wood is best for a boat?

Over time the wood shrinks and water can damage the boat further. So choose wood for decking or flooring, be able to withstand bending and rot. mahogany wood is a good choice to make boats.

What color is mahogany?

Mahogany usually come in deep red-brown and reddish-brown color. Mahogany is a strong durable wood uses for cabinet, flooring, and furniture making. Because of its beauty and density, it uses to manufacture veneer sheets which use to make plywood. Swietenia.

Why do people use wood flooring?

Due to its appearance, it is the favorite wood for flooring. The biggest reason for using flooring is that it matches with any other furniture in your rooms and gives beautiful patterns. One advantage of using flooring is that it does not change its color easily in sunlight.

What is Honduras mahogany used for?

Honduras mahogany Uses. It uses for furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, veneers, musical instruments, boatbuilding, and carving. 2. American Mahogany (Swietenia Mahogoni) It is known as Cuban mahogany, small leave mahogany. This species of Swietenia native to South Florida in the United States and the Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola.

How many species of mahogany are there?

Mahogany has 3 species but more than 6 common types of wood are often label as mahogany. According to the FWS only Honduras mahogany (Swietenia Humilis), American mahogany (Swietenia Mahogoni), and bigleaf mahogany (Swietenia Macrophylla) wood to be mahogany species.

What is mahogany wood called?

This wood is also called Lauan or Meranti .

Why is mahogany not planted in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, environmentalists are calling for an end to the planting of mahogany because of its negative impact on the environment and wildlife, including possibly causing soil acidification and no net benefit to wildlife.

How many tons of mahogany were imported in 1740?

Importations of mahogany into England (and excluding those to Scotland, which were recorded separately) reached 525 tons per annum by 1740, 3,688 tons by 1750, and more than 30,000 tons in 1788, the peak year of the 18th century trade.

Where do macrophylla grow?

mahagoni grows on the West Indian islands as far north as the Bahamas, the Florida Keys and parts of Florida; S. humilis grows in the dry regions of the Pacific coast of Central America from south-western Mexico to Costa Rica; S. macrophylla grows in Central America from Yucatan southwards and into South America, extending as far as Peru, Bolivia and extreme western Brazil. In the 20th century various botanists attempted to further define S. macrophylla in South America as a new species, such as S. candollei Pittier and S. tessmannii Harms., but many authorities consider these spurious. According to Record and Hess, all of the mahogany of continental North and South America can be considered as one botanical species, Swietenia macrophylla King.

Where did mahogany trees come from?

The origin of the name is uncertain, but it could be a corruption of 'm'oganwo', the name used by the Yoruba and Ibo people of West Africa to describe trees of the genus Khaya, which is closely related to Swietenia. When transported to Jamaica as slaves, they gave the same name to the similar trees they saw there. Though this interpretation has been disputed, no one has suggested a more plausible origin. The indigenous Arawak name for the tree is not known. In 1671 the word mahogany appeared in print for the first time, in John Ogilby 's America. Among botanists and naturalists, however, the tree was considered a type of cedar, and in 1759 was classified by Carl Linnaeus (1707–1778) as Cedrela mahagoni. The following year it was assigned to a new genus by Nicholas Joseph Jacquin (1727–1817), and named Swietenia mahagoni .

Where is mahogany grown?

Honduran or big-leaf mahogany ( Swietenia macrophylla ), with a range from Mexico to southern Amazonia in Brazil, the most widespread species of mahogany and the only genuine mahogany species commercially grown today. Illegal logging of S. macrophylla, and its highly destructive environmental effects, led to the species' placement in 2003 on ...

Where is mahogany tree plantation?

Foliage of a mahogany tree. Red mahogany tree Khaya anthotheca. Mahogany tree plantation in Jessore, Bangladesh. Mahogany is a straight- grained, reddish-brown timber of three tropical hardwood species of the genus Swietenia, indigenous to the Americas and part of the pantropical chinaberry family, Meliaceae .

Why is mahogany wood used in furniture?

These mahogany wood properties make it ideal for veneers, cabinets and furniture. Over time, the reddish-brown wood darkens and shows a reddish sheen when polished. Mahogany sawdust can cause an allergic reaction, typically skin and nasal irritation. Boat builders use mahogany because of the wood’s density and resistance to rot and decay.

What are the characteristics of mahogany wood?

Properties and Characteristics of Mahogany Timber. The characteristics of mahogany wood – durability, rot resistance and a reddish, warm color – make it a treasured choice for woodworkers. Most of the wood marketed as mahogany today isn’t genuine, however, although some have many of the same characteristics. Trees from the genus Swietenia are the ...

Why do boat builders use mahogany?

Boat builders use mahogany because of the wood’s density and resistance to rot and decay. Those qualities, as well as the wood’s immunity to some insects, make it ideal in any application where the wood is exposed to constant moisture.

How tall is a mahogany tree?

Mahogany trees are semi-evergreens that can grow as much as 75 feet tall and have a 50 foot spread, but they are more commonly 40 to 60 feet tall.

What woods are similar to mahogany?

A number of other woods, including Lyptus, Mountain, Santos and Andiroba are marketed as alternatives to real mahogany. Lyptus, a trademarked name for eucalyptus grown on plantations in Brazil, is sustainable, grows fast and is in good supply. It’s reasonably priced, and its color ranges from salmon to dark brown red.

When was mahogany banned?

The export of Cuban mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni), historically used by furniture makers like Chippendale and Sheraton because of its color and grain as well as by ship builders because of its resistance to rot, was banned in 1946 . In 2003, trade restrictions on mahogany from other countries were put in place by the Convention on International ...

Is mahogany wood still available?

In 2003, trade restrictions on mahogany from other countries were put in place by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to guarantee its survival, and several countries, Peru among them, have banned its exportation. True mahogany wood is now available largely from plantations.

Mahogany Wood

Mahogany Wood is a precious and exotic wood with a dark reddish-brown color. With its strong texture and oily finish, mahogany is not just perfect for high-end furniture; it’s also used in the manufacture of doors, windows, kitchen cabinets, office furniture, paneling and other decorative accents.

Mahogany Wood Properties

Mahogany wood is known for having a very dark, reddish-brown wood that attracts its many admirers.

Uses of Mahogany Wood

Mahogany flooring is a popular choice for the home because of its strength and beautiful grain.

Mahogany Wood Advantages

Mahogany wood is very strong, which makes it a good choice for projects that are expensive. It’s also a popular choice because because of the type of wood it is.

Disadvantage of Mahogany

The color of mahogany hardwood flooring darkens with time as they absorb sunlight. This can be a disadvantage for homeowners in need of a light-colored flooring.

Why Is It Popular

Mahogany is a popular wood due to its rich color and durability. It can last for decades.

Choosing Mahogany

There are many types of Mahogany. Including some other woods such as Sapele that are often marketed as one.

Mahogany Uses in Furniture

Mahogany is a popular option for furniture, but its popularity is not limited to home appliances and furniture. It’s also popular for sports equipment, outdoor furniture, as well as a musical instrument.

Mahogany For Indoor

There are a lot of furniture pieces that use Mahogany. Coffee tables, writing tables, china cabinets, and bookshelves are, to name some, popular ones.

Mahogany for Outdoor space

Even though many people choose to flaunt the color and prefer to have Mahogany as indoor flooring.

Mahogany for Sports

Mahogany is also a popular material for sports equipment. Here are a few examples of sports that use Mahogany as either the main material or a component for the equipment.

Other Uses

Mahogany is often used to make the piano and guitar frame. It is because it gives a warm acoustic that people enjoy. A drum set also often has a mahogany material. And this includes the drum sticks.

1- Cuban Mahogany

Historically this is what people talked about when they discussed Mahogany.

2- Honduran Mahogany

Honduran Mohagany is what’s left of genuine Mohagany, now that Cuban Mahogany is not available.

3- African Mahogany

African Mahogany refers to a number of different trees, all from Africa. It’s the most widely available substitute for genuine Mahogany.

4- Mountain Mahogany

Mountain Mahogany is a highly dense wood that is not often available for commercial sale, at least in bulk.

6- Swamp Mahogany

Swamp Mahogany is a tree from Australia though it’s now being grown worldwide, especially in warmer climates.

Why do people use mahogany seeds?

For people living in a tropical climate or who cannot avoid contact with insects such as malaria-bearing mosquitoes, powdered mahogany seed can be used as a supplement to increase protection against insect-borne disease.

What are mahogany seeds?

Mahogany seeds, also known as “sky fruit” seeds to those who are native to the areas where mahogany trees grow , are familiar with taking these seeds as part of a varied and healthful diet. People grind the seeds into powder and drink them with water. Now mahogany seeds are more widely available, often in capsule form, as a dietary supplement. Mahogany seeds contain 33 types of flavonoids and 27 types of saponins, making them even more nutritionally rich that other nutrient-dense plants, such as their relative ginseng. They also contain various vitamins, minerals, proteins and fatty acids that are necessary to healthy body function.

How many types of saponins are in mahogany seeds?

Mahogany seeds contain 33 types of flavonoids and 27 types of saponins, making them even more nutritionally rich that other nutrient-dense plants, such as their relative ginseng. They also contain various vitamins, minerals, proteins and fatty acids that are necessary to healthy body function.

Is mahogany good for you?

The health benefits of mahogany fruit and seeds include: fighting free radicals with antioxidants, lowering fat build up in the bloodstream, lowering cholesterol levels and enhancing the immune system.

Does mahogany seed help with blood sugar?

Another positive benefit of mahogany seeds is their effect on regulating blood sugar. For diabetics, taking 1/2 tsp. powdered mahogany seed with warm water before a meal may help keep their blood sugar steady . The various saponins contained by the mahogany plant are directly responsible for helping even out the blood sugar of those who take the seed internally.

Why do women wear mahogany?

Mahogany Obsidian can be among the favorites of women because of the classy jewelry created using it. This stone can be shaped in any possible form and sold by jewelers as pendants, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Not only women but also men like to adore such unique jewelry. Many people want to wear Mahogany Obsidian jewelry because of the positive energies reflected by it. The mood of a person depends a lot on what he/she carries or wears, and so wearing such a positive stone will only bring happiness and health.

What is the color of a mahogany rock?

This rock is mostly brick red or brown in color and its base material is black in color. When lava erupting from volcanoes cools quickly, then crystallization is not possible and then only Mahogany Obsidian is formed. For centuries, this rock is considered as a lucky gemstone and all because of its power of positivity.

What gemstones work with sugilite?

This gemstone works smoothly with Sugilite, Tibetian Black Quartz and Black Tourmaline to provide strong psychic protection. Mahogany Obsidian helps to increase the horizon of thoughts and explore the abundance in life. Thus, one can get out of all the mental limitations and feel free from any kind of fear.

Why is mahogany obsidian a natural rock?

Mahogany Obsidian is a natural glass rock because it is rich in silica content. The presence of Hematite and Magnetite in it is responsible for the patches on this rock, which are mahogany-colored. Obsidian stands for being a positive stone that enhances truth and protects from negative energies.

What is mahogany obsidian?

Obtained by quick cooling of volcanic lava, Mahogany Obsidian is a non-crystallized yet lustrous rock. Its silica content is high and therefore it is also known as natural glass. This rock contains Magnetite and Hematite that form mahogany-colored patches on it.

What is the best combination of mahogany and obsidian?

When it comes to jewelry of Mahogany Obsidian, then silver is the best combination used with this semi-precious stone. Pendants, rings, bracelets and many other jewelry items are made of silver and Mahogany Obsidian. People look for silver and Mahogany Obsidian necklaces, earrings etc. to adore themselves.

Is mahogany a good gemstone?

For centuries, this rock is considered as a lucky gemstone and all because of its power of positivity. Also, its healing properties are awesome. Mahogany Obsidian is a strong protective stone that absorbs all the negative energies in the surroundings.

Summary

Uses

Mahogany has a straight, fine, and even grain, and is relatively free of voids and pockets. Its reddish-brown color darkens over time, and displays a reddish sheen when polished. It has excellent workability, and is very durable. Historically, the tree's girth allowed for wide boards from traditional mahogany species. These properties make it a favorable wood for crafting cabinets and furniture.

Description

The three species are:
• Honduran or big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), with a range from Mexico to southern Amazonia in Brazil, the most widespread species of mahogany and the only genuine mahogany species commercially grown today. Illegal logging of S. macrophylla, and its highly destructive environmental effec…

Overview

The natural distribution of these species within the Americas is geographically distinct. S. mahagoni grows on the West Indian islands as far north as the Bahamas, the Florida Keys and parts of Florida; S. humilis grows in the dry regions of the Pacific coast of Central America from south-western Mexico to Costa Rica; S. macrophylla grows in Central America from Yucatan southwards and into South America, extending as far as Peru, Bolivia and extreme western Brazi…

History of American mahogany trade

In the 17th century, the buccaneer John Esquemeling recorded the use of mahogany or cedrela on Hispaniola for making canoes: "The Indians make these canoes without the use of any iron instruments, by only burning the trees at the bottom near the root, and afterwards governing the fire with such industry that nothing is burnt more than what they would have..."

Mahogany as an invasive species

In the Philippines, environmentalists are calling for an end to the planting of mahogany because of its negative impact on the environment and wildlife, including possibly causing soil acidification and no net benefit to wildlife.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9