Curiously, Ebony planes very well, as the African logs are usually very straight. Indian Ebony often has pale mineral spots and can be tougher to work. For most applications it needs to be carefully dried and quarter sawn, otherwise it shrinks, cracks and cups drastically. A very important wood with many applications, where wear and tear is involved. Chiefly fingerboards, pegs, also backs & sides. Some Ebony produces beautiful colours and patterns, so good for drop tops. Macassar Ebony is more lustrous with black and brown colours but limited supplies.