Creating highly polished and glossy wood carvings requires selecting the right type of wood, as not all varieties can achieve a smooth, reflective finish. The best woods for this purpose are dense, fine-grained, and capable of holding intricate details.

1. Mahogany: Known for its rich reddish-brown hue and smooth texture, mahogany is a favorite among carvers. It polishes exceptionally well, producing a deep, lustrous shine that enhances its natural beauty.

2. Ebony: This ultra-dense, dark wood is ideal for glossy finishes. Its tight grain allows for sharp detailing, and its natural oils contribute to a high-gloss surface with minimal effort.

3. Maple: Hard maple is prized for its pale, uniform color and fine grain. When sanded and polished, it achieves a mirror-like finish, making it perfect for contemporary sculptures.

4. Rosewood: With its striking grain patterns and natural oils, rosewood polishes to a brilliant sheen. It’s durable and resistant to wear, ensuring long-lasting gloss.

5. Boxwood: A dense, fine-grained wood, boxwood is excellent for intricate carvings. It takes polish beautifully, resulting in a smooth, glossy surface ideal for delicate art pieces.

For the best results, always use properly dried wood and finish with high-quality polishing compounds to enhance the wood’s natural luster.