The most beautiful piece of wood I've seen in some while. All the red is 100% Natural to this wood. This is Flame Box Elder.  That coloring is caused by the Ambrosia Beatle. This mill is about 12" tall and because I exclusively use Ceramic Grinders this mill will grind Salt, Pepper, or Spices. This mill has been finished to a high gloss. This his one won't last long at all.