Types of Mahogany Wood
- Honduras Mahogany. Found primarily in Central America and Mexico, the Honduras mahogany ( Swietenia humilis) is a very...
- Cuban Mahogany. Also known as Spanish mahogany, true mahogany, etc., the Cuban mahogany ( Swietenia mahogani) is a...
- Big-Leaf Mahogany. Today, most mahogany lumber in America is derived from big-leaf mahogany ( Swietenia...
Full Answer
What Wood is similar to mahogany?
Similar to mahogany: Sometimes referred to as Indian Mahogany, this wood is known to woodworkers in North America as Australian Red Cedar. It was once placed in the Cedrela genus alongside Spanish Cedar (Cedrela odorata) , and the two are very similar in most respects.
What are some uses of mahogany wood?
- Color Difference: Mahogany wood comes in pink color resulting in large color difference. ...
- Production: Mahogany is a high-quality wood that makes it most suited for furniture construction. ...
- Price: The price of mahogany wood is relatively high because the production rate of the mahogany tree is quite low as per its demand.
What are the different types of mahogany furniture?
Types of Wood Grain Patterns
- Red Oak. The Red Oak is found in the Eastern part of the US. ...
- White Oak. White Oak has a color that is light to medium brown with an olive cast. ...
- Sycamore. Sycamore wood comes in a light tan to white color, but sometimes can be a darker color that is closer to reddish-brown.
- Mahogany. ...
- Zebrano. ...
- Brazilian Rosewood. ...
- Makore. ...
- Teak. ...
- African Padauk. ...
- Ebony. ...
What kind of tree is Mahogany made out of?
Types of Mahogany Wood
- Honduras Mahogany. Found primarily in Central America and Mexico, the Honduras mahogany ( Swietenia humilis) is a very popular mahogany species that has a very vibrant color and grain pattern.
- Cuban Mahogany. ...
- Big-Leaf Mahogany. ...
Are there different types of mahogany wood?
It's sold under a variety of common names, including American Mahogany, Genuine Mahogany, Big-Leaf Mahogany, and Brazilian Mahogany. Despite the abundance of common names, they usually all refer to just one species—when in doubt, verify the scientific name: Swietenia macrophylla.
How many kinds of mahogany are there?
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.
Which mahogany is best?
South American Mahogany, Swietenia macrophylla Genuine Mahogany ranks among the finest cabinetry wood in the world.
What wood is most like mahogany?
Khaya is a gorgeous wood, and a good substitute for American mahogany.
How can you tell genuine mahogany?
Check the corners of wood to spot a veneer. Genuine mahogany end grain will have marginal parenchyma, or rows of light brown cells at the border of every growth ring you can see in the end grain. The presence of these is a strong suggestion of Swietenia species, which is the species of tree mahogany comes from.
What is genuine mahogany?
Central & South American Mahogany Lumber The species commonly known as “Genuine Mahogany” refers to Swietenia macrophylla, a type of wood that grows in Central and South America. The term “Genuine” is mainly a way of separating this species from the more recent market entrants which come from Africa and Asia.
What is Philippine mahogany?
Philippine mahogany is a common name for several different species of trees and their wood. Botanically, the name refers to Toona calantas in the mahogany family, Meliaceae. It is endemic to the Philippines. In the US timber trade, it is often applied to wood of the genus Shorea in the family Dipterocarpaceae.
Why is mahogany 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.
How many shades of mahogany are there?
14 Types of Mahogany Color.
Is teak a type of mahogany?
Mahogany is a tropical wood with a dark red-brown colour that is native to South America, Africa, and Central America. Teak is a close-grained hardwood that ranges in colour from yellow to dark brown. Indonesia, India, and Central America are home to this species.
Is Meranti like mahogany?
Meranti, in a lot of ways, is similar to Genuine Mahogany. The density and grain structure are similar with a nice homogenous feel that allows it to be milled easily and hold details really well. Plus, it is much lighter than the African exterior wood options like Sapele, Utile, and African Mahogany.
Is Sapele a mahogany?
s harder than both Honduran and African Mahogany. Sapele comes from West Africa and its scientific name is Entandrophragma cylindricum....Related: Mahogany vs Rosewood.Tropical (Honduran) Mahogany900 lbAfrican Mahogany1,070 lbSapele1,410 lbEast Indian Rosewood2,440 lb1 more row
Why is mahogany 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.
What is the difference between mahogany and Sapele?
Like Mahogany, Sapele is used as both a top wood and a back/sides wood. Also like Mahogany, Sapele is a popular wood for guitar necks....Related: Mahogany vs Rosewood.Tropical (Honduran) Mahogany900 lbAfrican Mahogany1,070 lbSapele1,410 lbEast Indian Rosewood2,440 lb1 more row
Is Brazilian mahogany still available?
It is still imported, although a significantly high percentage are of plantation-grown origin -- which is less desirable and considered to be of inferior quality to that grown in native habitats.
What is a mahogany tree known for?
This tree is known for is unique patterns which show the rays of the trees, apart from the annual rings. However, these trees have a coarse, interlocking grain pattern that looks and feels heavier than American mahoganies. Therefore, these trees are not as commercially valuable.
Where is mahogany native to?
Also known as the Khaya mahogany ( Khaya ivorensis ), this mahogany species is native to the rainforest regions of Africa, majority of which is found in Ghana and Cameroon. Although known by most people as a true mahogany, it is a distant cousin to its American counterparts.
What is mahogany used for?
Mahogany is one of the most popular varieties of hardwood, used in creating furniture, musical instruments, boats, and other items. In this DecorDezine article, we will look at the types of mahogany wood that are derived from various species of trees, and find out what differentiates one from the other. Mahogany is one of the most popular varieties ...
Where did mahogany trees come from?
Originally, the wood of this tree was exported from Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia to the U.S. However, during the past decade, restrictions in logging mahogany trees in Brazil and Bolivia has led to immense pressure on the Peruvian mahogany forests. Over half the mahoganies in Peru have now disappeared. African Mahogany.
What is the name of the tree that grows in Southeast Asia?
Also known as Chittagong wood or white cedar, this tree is native to countries in Southeast Asia. It has a beautiful dark brown shade and is used for building furniture and in construction purposes, such as planks, beams, etc. Royal Mahogany. This tree is also called andiroba or crabwood.
What is the name of the tree that looks like mahogany?
These trees provide lumber that look and feel similar to mahogany, and they are often named as such. Let us discuss a few of these species below. Spanish Cedar. This tree is a softwood variety that appears similar to mahogany. Its reddish brown wood may have streaks of gum in the grain.
Where is Honduras mahogany found?
Found primarily in Central America and Mexico, the Honduras mahogany ( Swietenia humilis) is a very popular mahogany species that has a very vibrant color and grain pattern. This makes it a very good choice for creating furniture and wood carvings. The wood also has a high dimensional stability and quality of resonance.
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.
Where does African mahogany come from?
African Mahogany. African Mahogany ( Khaya ivorensis) occurs naturally in West Africa, primarily Ghana and Cameroon. Wood from this region is consistent in grade, color, and texture, and carries a very lustrous grain appearance.
What is genuine mahogany used for?
Because of the characteristics of Genuine Mahogany, the wood is used extensively in furniture making, high end door and window manufacturing, wood turning, and musical instrument production.
What is Sapele lumber?
Sapele ( Entandrophragma cylindricum) is a moderately priced substitute for traditional Genuine Mahogany. Sapele lumber is indigenous to several countries in Africa; most of J. Gibson McIlvain’s Sapele lumber is imported from the Congo.
Where does Spanish cedar grow?
Spanish Cedar has also been naturalized to grow on plantations in Ghana and the Ivory Coast.
Is mahogany a hardwood?
Mahogany: Its Variations & Its Alternatives. There are many different tree species and hardwoods commonly referred to as “mahogany.”. Commercially available alternative species have gained in popularity over the last several years, although Genuine Mahogany remains the most sought-after of the “mahogany” lumbers.
What is mahogany wood?
Mahogany wood connotes luxury and richness. It's a popular wood for flooring and furniture. However, did you know there are 6 main types of mahogany wood? We list them out here with photo examples and in-depth descriptions.
What is the color of mahogany?
Wood color. African mahogany, khaya ivorensis, sometimes has an interlocked grain pattern and a heartwood color ranging from deeper reddish-brown to pale pink. It can have streaks of medium to dark reddish brown as well. As with almost all mahogany types, the color of African mahogany lumber tends to darken with age.
How tall is a mahogany tree?
Tree. The African mahogany tree is huge, ranging from 100 feet to 130 feet in height. The trunk diameters are three to five feet around. African mahogany wood has a Janka hardness rating of 1,070 lbf, which is why it is perfect for fine furniture.
What is swamp mahogany used for?
Uses. The timber is usually used for general construction and firewood, meaning that you shouldn’t trust any furniture claiming to be made from swamp mahogany. This is because the Janka hardness rate of 1,250 lbf is too high to work on well with machines or tools.
Why is mahogany important to Honduras?
It is an extremely important timber in Honduras the rest of Latin America, since it brings in a lot of money via export. This species is now grown extensively in plantations and is widely exploited by the market. This is why it is included in the CITES Appendix II, due to the immense potential of it becoming a vulnerable species. Steps have been made to ensure that any export of Honduran mahogany comes from a sustainable source. This stops many lumber retailers from exploiting this wood type.
What is the best wood for furniture?
Honduran Mahogany. Swietenia macrophylla is also commonly referred to as Peruvian mahogany, big leaf mahogany, bigleaf mahogany, Honduran mahogany or Honduras mahogany. It is the most common substitute for Cuban mahogany, which is hailed as one of the best woods for furniture.
What is the color of heartwood?
Swietenia macrophylla is hailed as a really beautiful type of wood. The color of the heartwood ranges from a dark reddish brown to a pale pinkish brown. As with all mahogany, the color tends to darken with age and it displays the optical phenomenon known as chatoyancy.
What is mahogany wood?
Mahogany Wood. Mahogany is an exotic wood prized for its durability, workability, and elegant look. It has a pink or reddish-brown hue that deepens over time. The grain is straight and uniform, typically with relatively few knots or blemishes. Although Mahogany looks great and is easy to work with, there are environmental concerns related to ...
Why is mahogany wood used in furniture?
America’s love of mahogany wood dates back to colonial times, particularly in furniture because it is durable and takes to ornate carving well. It’s also used in paneling, cabinetry, flooring, and doors. Its rot-resistance also made it somewhat popular for decking and boat making in the past.
Why are mahogany boards so big?
Boards can be exceptionally large because the trees may grow to epic proportions, sometimes reaching six feet in diameter. For this reason, it was once quite common to see mahogany paneling in high-end design, but the exotic wood was also incorporated into furniture and used for cabinetry quite a bit too.
How tall are swietenia macrophylla?
These beautiful slow-growing giants can reach up to 200 feet tall, with trunks that are 6 feet in diameter. Although the average size is closer to 130 feet tall, it still takes decades for Swietenia macrophylla to reach these heights and old growth is most at-risk for illegal harvest.
What are some examples of hardwoods?
Common examples of hardwoods are oak, walnut, cherry, and maple, while softwoods include things like cedar, fir, and pine.
Is mahogany wood eco friendly?
Considering the level of exploitation, deforestation, and the amount of illegal harvest ing occuring, mahogany is not an eco-friendly choice at all. Adding to this, most mahogany wood that makes its way into the United States is shipped across oceans and continents, further increasing the carbon footprint.
Is mahogany endangered?
That said, all genuine mahogany is classified as either vulnerable to extinction or endangered. Illegal harvesting is a major problem, contributing to the destruction of rainforests, devastating the homes of indigenous people, threatening wildlife, and feeding international crime rings.
What is mahogany wood called?
This wood is also called Lauan or Meranti .
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 .
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.
What is the name of the tree that is not known?
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.
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.
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 ...
What is mahogany wood?
But a variety of wood species are casually described as “mahogany” despite the crucial differences between them.
Where is utile mahogany found?
Found in west and central Africa, utile (also known as sipo, or sipo mahogany) has an interlocking grain similar to other mahogany species, with the closest match being found in genuine mahogany. Dense and suitable for use in roof systems, the heartwood tends toward a reddish brown, whereas sapwood is a paler yellow. Similar in strength and stiffness to the other species in this list, utile is a perfect candidate for all of our roof systems, roof lanterns, and custom skylights.
Advantages of Mahogany
Types of Mahogany Wood
- In this post, we classify mahogany wood typesinto three broad categories, the inner circle, the outer circle, and the periphery. A fourth category includes woods that resemble but are NOT mahogany, which you can still use, but not as mahogany.
The Inner Circle – Swietenia
- You will find all the characteristics described above in the Swieteniagenus, and you can consider all the species that fall under this head as genuine mahogany. There are three primary species:
Identification of Swietenia
- The secret to accurate identification of genuine mahogany lies in the proper and positive identification of Swietenia. You would find it hard to distinguish one Swietenia species from another. However, you can distinguish it from other species by following a few specific guidelines: 1. Magnified scanning of the end grain to positively identify marginal parenchymais absent in ot…
The Outer Circle
- To many woodworkers, African mahogany of the Khaya genus is not genuine mahogany. Many others, however, are ready to accept it as a form of mahogany. So, the controversy continues, but we have placed the species of the Khayagenus within the outer circle.
The Periphery
- Mahogany members of the periphery group are those wood species that neither belongs to Swietenia nor Khaya genus, but to the Meliaceae family. Nevertheless, they exhibit similar characteristics to mahogany.
The Outsiders
- A few wood species bear a superficial resemblance to mahogany – enough to earn its name. That said, many woodworkers would not be ready to deal with these so-called types of mahogany. If you are looking for genuine mahogany or at least a slight variation, these wood species should be the last on your list.