How can you tell the difference between rosewood and mahogany furniture?

Question

I have an antique bedroom suite that dates back to the turn of the century. It has beautiful carved roses. But I wonder if it is mahogany or rosewood?

Answer 1

Mahogany is  is a dark red color sometimes, however, it is dark brown.

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. Another trick to tell if an item is rosewood is to pick it up. Rosewood is a very heavy wood, heavier than mahogany.

In the 17th century China, rosewood was a popular choice for fine furniture makers. As well, in 19th century Europe, it was used to construct better-quality furniture for fine homes.