Fine, closed grain makes this Central American hardwood machine easily & finish well. The unique brilliant red color with black undertones is unusual and unmatched in other exotic hardwoods. The Mayans refer to this hardwood is Chakte Koke. For best results in finishing, please use a UV inhibitor as the wood turns honey/brown when exposed to sunlight. We have had good results with keeping the red color of this wood when it is finished. Another nice aspect of this hardwood is that it is excellent for turnery due to its great machinability. It can be used by anyone from the beginner to the experienced wood turner. Cosmocalyx spectabilis. Kiln dried and ready to use, this material has been surfaced on two sides and is ready for your beautiful woodworking projects!