Santos Mahogany

PHOTO
DESCRIPTION	Santos Mahogany exhibits a range of color between light orange/brown with yellowish overtones to a dark reddish/purplish brown. This lumber actually a bit harder than Honduran Mahogany. This wood also features an interlocked grain, which gives it a strong ribbon-like pattern.
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN	Central America
BOTANICAL NAME	Myroxylon Balsamo
OTHER NAMES	Balsamo (English) & Palo de Balsamo (Central America) AKA Cabriziva, Cedro chino, Chirraca, Estoraque, Incienso, Nabal, Sandalo, Tache, Tolu
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES	This wood can be moderately difficult to machine, as would be expected from its density and its interlocked grain. Sharp tools and fresh sandpaper are necessary for finishing premium surfaces.
WORKING PROPERTIES	This lumber is moderately difficult to work with but can be finished smoothly with a high natural polish. Because of the density, all nails and screws must use pre-drilled holes.
SEASONING	The lumber typically will be dried at the sawmill, rather than shipped green and dried in the United States. Even with this wood being so heavy, it reportedly dries without much difficulty.
USES	Fine furniture, cabinets, interior millwork, hardwood flooring, entry doors, stairs and moldings.
COMMENTS	This lumber IS NOT related to Honduran or African Mahogany