Antiques - Wood Basics

Mahogany

Mahogany is a close-grain hard wood native to northern and central South America and the West Indies. Mahogany was a popular choice in England during the mid-18th century for fine furniture making. It is a dark red color sometimes, however, it is dark brown. Red mahogany is found in the West Indies and brown mahogany is native to South America. Mahogany furniture continues to be desirable today.

Rosewood

Rosewood is a close-grain hard wood indigenous to India, South America and the West Indies. Rosewood is named for the rose scent that releases when it is cut. Occasionally, I find that people confuse rosewood and mahogany. Both woods can be red in color. However, when you look closely at rosewood, you'll see fine black (and sometimes white) rings that are not present in mahogany.

[2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]

 

Home
Get started
Attribute
Six Mistakes
Do's and Dont's
Originate
Wood Basics
Europe
Painted Furniture
Museums
Collectables
Selling on Ebay
Reproduction
Imprint

-LINKS-:-LINKS-