African Mahogany (Khaya ivorensis) and Genuine Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) are two different species of mahogany wood, and while they have some similarities, they also have some distinct differences in their properties and characteristics. Here are some more technical details about these two types of mahogany wood:
Appearance: Genuine Mahogany has a rich reddish-brown color that darkens over time, while African Mahogany has a lighter reddish-brown color. Genuine Mahogany has a straight, even grain with a medium texture, while African Mahogany's grain is often interlocked or irregular, and it has a coarse texture.
Density: Genuine Mahogany is denser and heavier than African Mahogany. The average weight of Genuine Mahogany is around 41 pounds per cubic foot, while African Mahogany's average weight is around 32 pounds per cubic foot.
Durability: Both species of mahogany wood are known for their durability, but Genuine Mahogany is generally considered to be more durable and resistant to decay and rot than African Mahogany. Genuine Mahogany has a Janka hardness rating of 800 lbf, while African Mahogany's Janka rating is around 600 lbf.
Workability: Both types of mahogany wood are known for their excellent workability, but Genuine Mahogany is considered to be slightly easier to work with due to its straight, even grain. African Mahogany's irregular grain can make it more challenging to work with, but it also gives it a unique appearance that some woodworkers prefer.
Sustainability: Genuine Mahogany is considered to be an endangered species due to over-harvesting, while African Mahogany is more readily available and considered to be a more sustainable choice.
In summary, while both African Mahogany and Genuine Mahogany are popular and high-quality types of mahogany wood, they have some distinct differences in their appearance, density, durability, workability, and sustainability. When choosing between these two types of wood for a project, it is important to consider these factors and choose the type of wood that best fits the project's requirements and priorities.