February 2004 -You will notice that on many pens, I chose to make a center ring from another wodd instead of using the gold plated ring that comes with the kit. This is merely a design thing. Light Oak is also known as eastern white oak, stave oak, ridge white oak, cucharillo, encino, and roble. This wood grows in United States and Canada. Wood marketed as white oak may contain other white oak species but Quercus alba is primary species. Uses include outdoor furniture, boats, cooperage, flooring, interior furniture - especially chairs and tables, turnery, baskets, trim, millwork, and veneers.  Also makes a nice pen.