Originally Posted by
Mike Cutler
"yellow" beeswax is typically processed right out of the hive. It is a mixture of wax, propolis, pollen, etc, and the heat from the uncapping process usually turns it a little bit more amber. It's not filtered typically. Whatever floats to the top during the processing is skimmed off, and you're left with what you're left with.
"White" beeswax is more highly filtered. Typically used in food processing, medicines, candle making, and, cosmetics.
Beeswax melts at about 145degF, so it can be easier applied "wet" if you'd like, and not present a danger to you.
If you're going to get it "raw", heat it up slowly in a double boiler, and skim off all of the pollutants. Propolis is a hard resinous material in a beehive, it's their form of glue, and it can scratch the piece you're applying wax to.
It is a soft finish though, and easy to mar. But also easy to fix. Just warm it back up, and wipe it down.