Just pick up a small piece of each this morning.
I'm planning on making a few small desk items with it. Pen & pencil holder,
bus card holder and such.

I've never used this wood before.

Any tips on working with it, specifically cutting & routing it.

I'm just planning on gluing it up with orig Titebond instead of trying to
shoot some 5/8" brads,
since they are both pretty dense woods.

What is a good choice for a finish which will help the woods retain their
great colors?

ThankX again,
Ron