The deep, dark color is often simulated but never approached. Maple is hard, heavy and strong with very fine texture and grain. The wood is known for its light color and resistance to wear. It polishes and finishes to a silky surface. Mesquite is hard and very stable.
Useable wood is rare because of the numerous twisting branches and the small size of the trees.
The finished wood has a unique depth and beautiful reddish-brown color. Mahogany is moderately hard, very stable and durable in the weather. Quite light when freshly worked, the wood ages to a dark reddish-brown. The forest stewardship council is an international organization that has established standards for sustainable forest management. When followed, these standards ensure the protection of water quality, wildlife habitat, forest health, species diversity and the perpetual harvest of wood.