I have a panel with an ebony veneer border that I have attempted to finish.  What I hoped for was a low gloss varnish vinish.  I used a rubbing varnish applied in many thin coats.  I sanded lightly between coats.  Overall the finish was what I hoped for but bands in the ebony remained dull, following the grain.  Applying additional coats of varnish had no effect.  Finally I applied a paste wax which made no difference and gave up.  Using a filler on the ebony was not an option because it would have spread into the center of the panel.

I plan on using ebony borders again.  Any suggestions on how I can achieve a uniform sheen over them?