There are also other types of Chinese Truffles including the tuber melanosporum which are usually made into truffle extracts and is sold at a high price; the tuber himalayensis which looks very similar to the tuber melanosporum an is only harvested in the Chinese Himalayas; the tuber sinensis, which are also found in high places and the Chinese summer white truffle. Its color is blue-black on the outside and would eventually turn to brown-black as it ages. Piedmont truffle the Italian white which is light-colored and brittle. It would be beige in color and would turn to dark-brown as it matures. Summer truffle- found in France, Italy and Spain. It is black outside and off-white on the inside. - the Oregon black truffle or the Leucangium carthusianum. Formerly called Picoa carthusiana, this type of truffle is less common compared to the Oregon white truffles. These are not used regularly because they look like coals, with very dark appearance. It also has a very pungent and earthy odor once it is ripe. But the culinary experience and delight that one gets from them is truly worth it. Make sure to remove all dirt on the truffle before eating. Wash it with water and brush it lightly. There are truffle brushes which are meant to remove mold and dirt. Soft truffles like the Italian white are better left un-brushed. If you want to try them, the following are several tips on cooking with truffles. * Know the difference between truffle varieties. Even if they re known for their strong flavor and aroma, truffles still vary in those departments depending on the fungal species. For example, a Chinese truffle is different from Italian truffle, even though they are both black. If you want to freeze the truffles, you can keep them in olive oil before doing that. Make sure that the truffles are 100% covered in oil. This storage method will prevent freezer burn and capture the aroma of the truffle into the oil, hence the truffle aroma. Never slice, shave, or grate the truffles until you are ready to use them as ingredient for your dishes.