Replies

1. 
   desertrat | May 20, 2004 05:14pm | #1

   If it's truly Spanish Cedar, it is primarily used for the linings of Humidors.  But, of course, because of it's ability to resist rot can be used for many other things.

   I use a fair amount of it to line small boxes that I make.  It generally has a nice odor to it and is not as overpowering as Tennessee Red Aromatic Cedar.

   Some here have suggested that you will want to watch the dust coming off of it when milling, I've never experienced a problem though.

   You've got yourself a treasure there!  Have fun with it.

2. 
   jonsherryl | May 21, 2004 01:33am | #2

   Frozen, Spanish cedar is actually a mahogany, meaning it belongs the the mahogany family; Meliaceae. It is cut from about a half dozen species in the genus ; Cedrela. This genus ranges throughout Central and South America, but the more northerly species; Cedrela odorata, is probably the better known (and best) of the bunch. Some of the other species tend to be much gummier and a couple of them are actually denser than the mainland mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla).

   Spanish cedar has outstanding decay resistance and is a good choice for exterior projects. Its aromatic gum is indispensable for cigar humidors, in that it adds to the flavor and aroma of the tobacco. This gum extractive (being a gum as opposed to a resin) is somewhat water soluble and consequently it escapes the wood with fluctuations in humidity...a great feature for cigars...but not so good if you're making clock cases, jewelry boxes or silver chests. The gum tends to vaporize and coat metal objects with a dull, greasy film.       

   
   

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   Edited 5/21/2004 7:44 am ET by Jon Arno

1. 
   Tao | May 21, 2004 01:39am | #3

   I recently finished some "spanish cedar" doors and trim that looked exactly like Honduras mahogany in grain, color, and cross section (10X).  Smelled like mahogany, too. I think the term is used pretty loosely, especially by the decorator crowd.

   Michael R

1. 
   jonsherryl | May 21, 2004 01:53am | #4

   Michael, some of the South American Cedrelas do seem to integrate with mainland mahogany in terms of density. Aside from the scent, which isn't always helpful once the wood ages, the key end-grain clue is that the cedrelas tend to be more ring-porous than mahogany. In other words, the pores along the growth increments (rings) are conspicuously larger...almost like the earlywood in butternut.

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   >>"...Smelled like mahogany, too. I think the term is used pretty loosely, especially by the decorator crowd."<<

   I know what you mean about the decorator crowd, Wiz. Over the past 50 years, I've only met a couple of them that could actually tell the difference between oak and ash. 

   Edited 5/20/2004 9:03 pm ET by Jon Arno

3. 
   CharlieD | May 21, 2004 02:15am | #5

   According to Cumpiano and Natleson, Spanish Cedar is also the wood of choice in Classical Guitar necks, even over genuine mahogany. If you plan to sell, ebay might be a good route, and if you go this route, include the word "luthier" in your description.

   Charlie

   I tell you, we are here to fart around, and don't let anybody tell you different. --K Vonnegut
4. 
   EdHarrow | May 21, 2004 03:44am | #6

   It is also used as planking for traditionally-built wooden boats.

5. 
   OneofmanyBobs | May 21, 2004 01:50pm | #7

   Works easy, good for exterior millwork.  Decay resistant.  Has enough silica in the stuff I have to dull tools a little quicker than average.  I use it for guitars.  A relative bargain.  Better quality than most of the junk sold as mahogany.  Available in heavy pieces.  I bought a truckload from a local millwork outfit a couple years back.  The dust is an irritant.  Wear a mask if you're sensitive.

1. 
   MarkRoderick | May 21, 2004 02:44pm | #8

   I happen to be working with it right now for a small project. I wanted to use cherry but the "spanish cedar" was half the price.

   It works well with hand tools. A sharp plane leaves a beautiful surface. It does look somewhat like mahogany.

   As I was putting it through the table saw I noticed a very unpleasant taste in my mouth. Then I notice that I was eating asparagus.

    . . . .just kidding. There was an unpleasant taste which must have been the dust others are talking about.

1. 
   Frozen | May 21, 2004 03:23pm | #9

   Thanks for your information, everyone. Right after I posted, I Googled "Spanish Cedar" and got information from a few hardwood dealer sites, which didn't give me any more information than you've given here.

   I did notice a sore throat the morning after moving the dusty piles of lumber, so the advice about dust protection is duly noted.