"I thought the idea that trees had souls was a little hokey growing up, " says Yarnall.

FORBES: Trees with souls

Yarnall also has her own network of "wood scouts, " who call whenever they find a world-class tree.

FORBES: Trees with souls

Nakashima's health was failing, so he passed the project on to his daughter, Mira Nakashima-Yarnall, who had apprenticed with him for 20 years.

FORBES: Trees with souls

Yarnall took it and rewarded her informant with a coffee table made from one of the planks, keeping the rest for her stockpile.

FORBES: Trees with souls

Aibel has been selling vintage Nakashima since 1986 and is putting on a joint show with Yarnall on the origins and continuity of the Nakashima tradition.

FORBES: Trees with souls