Laser engraver suppliers choose red alder for many of the laser engraving demonstrations on wood because red alder exhibits a very high contrast when laser engraved. Now, while material is available, we are offering red alder as a material for your CraftID signature medallions. Red Alder (alnus rubra) resembles cherry in some ways. It has a slightly pinkish tan color and some refer to it as a "poor man's cherry". Red Alder does not darken over time (cherry does). Most clear finishes will result in red alder showing a sort of gold tone. Finishes with an amber color may result in red alder showing a much more reddish tone.