Tried yet another stain for the Std. Gauge layout table. Minwax Express Colors Onyx. Decision made! Same consistency and same product as the Emerald I really like. Its terrific. When both are very polyurethaned to a gloss-like finish, it will be just the look I was thinking of. The shaped facing boards will also be stained in Emerald.
Pic shows 2 dry coats of the Emerald, and one quick coat done with a cloth application and then wiped off of the Onyx.