In the wake of Genuine Mahogany’s decreased availability and quality, many customers are looking for alternatives. African Mahogany has long been considered a viable alternative, but it’s currently experiencing a different kind of shortage. Once you understand the distinctions … [Read more...]

With the current shortage of Genuine Mahogany and concerns about quality and grading, one positive side effect is the increased availability and popularity of African alternatives — including, but not limited to, African Mahoganies. Other species that produce long, wide, and … [Read more...]

Genuine Mahogany logs In addition to understanding the distinctions between so-called “Genuine Mahogany” and African Mahogany, being a knowledgeable lumber customer means being aware of the availability and other issues relating to each of those species. As we raise … [Read more...]

When it comes to African Mahogany, there’s a reason many consider it inferior to its South American cousin. African Mahogany is actually just as much part of the Mahogany family as so-called Genuine Mahogany. Despite the misnomer, the clarifying name "Genuine Mahogany" originated … [Read more...]

At J. Gibson McIlvain, we’re direct importers of exotic hardwoods from across the globe. Many of our most popular species hail from South America, where our specially trained experts visit each lumber mill in person before we begin relationships with them. During their on-site … [Read more...]

Even if you begin with the best lumber in an ideal color, you may not end up with a quality wood product. A beautiful piece of Mahogany may end up looking terrible if you’re not careful about the moulding and planing process. You have to take your feed rate, board support, and … [Read more...]

Genuine Mahogany has long been a favorite of furniture makers and woodworkers in general — and for good reasons, too. Its workability is second-to-none, and after finishing, the color and depth are simply breathtaking. Those aspects of the species have not changed. However, in … [Read more...]

As popular as Genuine Mahogany remains with many craftsmen, interrelated issues like availability, sustainability , and affordability are making alternative species increasingly important to consider. At J. Gibson McIlvain, we have researched the issue thoroughly and believe that … [Read more...]

The furniture and cabinet-making industries have long-term relationships with Genuine Mahogany. Also called Honduran Mahogany, this species boasts unrivaled beauty and workability. At the same time, its reputation has been blighted in recent years, being considered by many to be … [Read more...]

As a long-time favorite of furniture and cabinet makers, Genuine Mahogany has enjoyed centuries of popularity. Unfortunately, years of widespread use, coupled with irresponsible forestry management, have led to concerns regarding sustainability. This South American species has … [Read more...]