Gage wood, also known as plum wood, is a fine-textured hardwood prized for its rich color and smooth finish. Typically a warm brown with subtle reddish or purplish hues, it's often used in small, decorative items like knife handles, inlay work, and musical instruments. Due to the relatively small size of plum trees, gage wood is not commonly available in large pieces, making it a more specialized and often expensive choice for woodworking projects. Its density and hardness make it durable and capable of holding intricate details, adding to its appeal for craftspeople seeking a unique and beautiful material.
