Store-bought "ebony"

[putnamm]

Can someone tell me why the ebony pen blanks that I buy at Woodcraft are mostly white with black streaks? I thought ebony was solid black. Is the store-bought stuff a differet species? Is it different in quality?

Thanks.

Mark

 

[KenV]

What you describe is "black and white" ebony. A different species from the deep brown/black 's maccassar ebony.

Hobbit House has a good discussion on wood species.

 

[jttheclockman]

Can someone tell me why the ebony pen blanks that I buy at Woodcraft are mostly white with black streaks? I thought ebony was solid black. Is the store-bought stuff a differet species? Is it different in quality?

Thanks.

Mark

Black & White Ebony Exotic Wood & Black & White Ebony Lumber | Bell Forest Products