Rosewood is generally more expensive than mahogany. This is due to several factors, including rarity, demand, and legal restrictions. Rosewood, which is a type of hardwood, is often associated with high-end furniture and musical instruments. It is highly sought after for its rich color and grain patterns, which make it desirable for luxury goods. The CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) lists many species of rosewood as endangered, which has significantly reduced the supply and driven up prices.

Mahogany, on the other hand, is a more common hardwood that is also used in high-end applications. It is known for its durability and workability, but it is not as rare or highly valued as rosewood. The demand for mahogany has also increased over the years, but it has not reached the same level as rosewood.

According to a report by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), the average price of rosewood in 2020 was $8,000 per cubic meter, while the average price of mahogany was $3,000 per cubic meter. This significant price difference can be attributed to the factors mentioned earlier, such as rarity and legal restrictions. The demand for rosewood has been on the rise due to its use in high-end furniture, musical instruments, and decorative items, while mahogany is more commonly used in construction and general woodworking projects.

The rarity of rosewood is a major factor in its higher price. Many species of rosewood are protected under CITES, which regulates international trade in endangered species. The restrictions on trade have made it difficult for suppliers to obtain rosewood, which has driven up prices. Additionally, the demand for rosewood has been increasing due to its aesthetic appeal and the perception of it as a luxury material.

In contrast, mahogany is more readily available and is not subject to the same level of legal restrictions as rosewood. While it is also a valuable wood, it is not as rare or highly sought after as rosewood. This is reflected in its lower price compared to rosewood.

In conclusion, rosewood is more expensive than mahogany due to its rarity, demand, and legal restrictions. The high price of rosewood is a result of its use in luxury goods and its endangered status, while mahogany remains more accessible and is used in a wider range of applications.