Cherry

Cherry is a closed-grained hardwood that darkens with age to become a very beautiful reddish-brown color. It is often used to make everything from expensive furniture to caskets. It should never be stained, but it can be varnished.
From the United States, Switzerland and Canada.
The popularity of cherry in the furniture market is reported to have increased over the years because of its warmth, personality, and ease of use. The narrow sapwood is whitish to reddish brown or creamy pink. The heartwood varies in color from reddish brown to deep red or light reddish brown, usually with brown flecks and some gum pockets. Cherry is reported to be very sensitive to UV light, and changes to its characteristic reddish-brown, mahogany shade upon exposure. The grain is fine, but material with dark wavy streaks which are described as striking in appearance are frequently found. Texture is fine and uniform, and the wood often has narrow brown pith flecks and small gum pockets. Luster is rich and satiny and finishing characteristics are good.
Common uses include boat building, cabinetmaking, caskets, fine furniture, musical instruments, scientific instruments, sculpture, figured veneer, interior construction, handles and wainscoting.
Specific Gravity is .54 (medium density). Turns very easily.
Weight: 35
Grain: straight, also found as curly.
Figure: color is a light red to pink which darkens with age.
Texture: is close, firm and uniform.
Properties: the wood is very stable in use with little to no warpage or movement. Capable of a smooth surface. Works easily with hand and power tools, carves nicely with a clean sharp edge.
Use: a good wood for hull framing and timbering. Suitable for small fittings and hull planking.