Mahogany is generally more expensive than rosewood. This is due to several factors, including the rarity and demand for rosewood, as well as the specific species of rosewood that are considered the most valuable.

Rosewood, a term that encompasses several species, is protected under international agreements such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The scarcity of these species, combined with a high demand for them in the furniture and musical instrument industries, drives up their prices. For instance, Brazilian rosewood (Dalbergia nigra) is one of the most sought-after types, and its price can exceed $10,000 per cubic foot. In contrast, mahogany, particularly African mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), is more readily available and not as heavily regulated, making it more affordable.

Data from the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) and the CITES Secretariat indicate that the price of rosewood can be significantly higher than that of mahogany. For example, in 2019, the average price of Brazilian rosewood was reported to be around $8,000 per cubic meter, while African mahogany was priced at approximately $1,200 per cubic meter. These figures highlight the substantial price difference between the two woods.

The demand for rosewood is also influenced by cultural preferences. In some regions, rosewood is highly valued for its rich color and durability, making it a preferred material for luxury furniture and musical instruments. This demand, coupled with the limited supply, contributes to the higher price of rosewood.

In conclusion, rosewood is generally more expensive than mahogany due to its rarity, demand, and the specific species that are considered the most valuable. The data from ITTO and CITES further support this assertion, with rosewood prices often exceeding those of mahogany by a significant margin.