What We Like About This Fireplace Mantel Cut from the rugged side of a basswood tree this mantel features a rough front. The mantel ends have natural scuff marks and the slab has a smooth top. With a beautiful wood top and face this mantel has a nat ural appearance.Please note: Mantel shelf will vary slightly from the one shown. Because each log is different each mantel has its own unique grain and characteristics. These differences do not affect the structural strength of the mantel