South American mahogany is Honduras Mahogany , the genus name being the same  Sweetania Macrophylla.    This genus is found in other places in Asia and Polynesia, some of which is plantation grown . It varies a great deal in density and color, Hence the industry has dyed it brown when finishing. Some builders when finishing in figured wood, stain  it , so the stain penetrates the wood to highlight the figure even more.  Heavier density will add to more resonant distinction. The lighter wood sets have  a sweeter mellower  tone. The current sets are good verticla ( quarter cut)  the RIBBON FIGURE  on some sets is the way the tree grew, as a tropical tree it doesn't have annular rings like temperate climate trees. How ever the interlocking of teh grain brings beautiful light reflection to the finished product.