[pipecrafter]

I agree. A well-sanded handle of cocobolo with patinate very nicely with use, especially a highly figured piece. I made my father a folding knife with cocobolo handles this past Christmas, and did nothjing but sand to 600-grit and give it a light polish with white diamond followed by a quick carnuba buff. The carnuba will wear off eventually, but evenly, leaving a nice natural wood surface that feels great when you hold it.