"Figure" refers to the pattern produced by the wood's grain, annual rings, rays, coloration, or knots. "Fiddleback figure" results from curly grain. A stripe (or ribbon) figure is caused by interlocked grain.

"Luster" is the effect of reflected light on the surface of the wood. We use the terms "Curly" to describe tiger-striped maple and "Quilted" to describe swirly, cloud-like maple figuration.