"The first step in processing logs into “flitches” is the selection and grading of the logs; grading decides which logs will be sliced into plain, figured, or standard architectural veneer logs. After this initial selection, the ends of each log are cut off to expose the fresh grains, enabling the logger to select which of the logs will be cut into quarters, halves, or left round for a rotary cutting. 
Did you know? Only mature trees at the end of their life cycle are viable for veneer manufacturing – young trees do not yield a fine veneer product. For every one hundred trees in the forest, only about 4-7 of them are suitable for veneer quality. "
M. Bohlke Corp. on LinkedIn