Spanish Cedar is also known as Cigar-box Cedar, as this was one of its traditional uses. The wood’s natural aroma repels insects, and the high resin count makes it very weather and rot resistant.
This cigar box measures 14″ wide, 9″ high and 8 7/8″ deep. The box is made of Amboyna burl.
A burl is a tree growth in which the grain has grown in a deformed manner. It is commonly found in the form of a rounded outgrowth on a tree trunk or branch that is filled with small knots from dormant buds.
This particular set of amboyna burl veneer used in this box came from Southeast Asia and consisted of 9 sheets of sequentially cut veneer.
Amboyna burl is related to the Narra family of trees and its prices vary depending on the amount and type of figure: unfigured wood is moderately priced, while high-grade Ambyona ranks as one of the most expensive woods in the world. The veneer used in this box was rated as AAAA.
The hardware is made in England and is a polished nickle over solid brass.
The mother of pearl used in the inlay is comprised of three types of mother of pearl, white, gold and black. The mother of pearl comes from the Philippine islands.
The drawers are made of Spanish Cedar. Despite its name, Spanish Cedar is not only a hardwood (and therefore not a Cedar at all), but it is also not Spanish. Spanish Cedar actually comes from the Meliaceae family, along with Mahogany; Spanish Cedar is similar to Genuine Mahogany in its beautiful coloration, attractive grain pattern, and great workability.