Olive
Olea europaea · Exotic/Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Hardwood
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, North Africa, Middle East)
- Hardness
- 2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance but susceptible to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and wild grain pattern; interlocked and wavy with distinct dark brown streaks creating a marbled appearance.
Color & Appearance
Creamy yellowish-brown heartwood with high-contrast dark brown or black streaks throughout. Luster is medium-high. Tends to darken slightly over time without losing contrast.
Hardness (Janka)
2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance but susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $25.00 - $45.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern cut (undated); likely heartwood section from a slow-growing older limb or trunk based on growth-ring density.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available as a byproduct of olive fruit production.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, knife handles, small turned objects, pens, bowls, flooring, and decorative veneer.
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, North Africa, Middle East)
Workability
Difficult due to density and wild grain; high risk of tearout. Gluing can be tricky due to natural oil content. Polishes to an extremely smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Natural oil finishes (tung or linseed) are recommended to enhance colors; shellac or lacquer work well but require surface de-oiling with solvent first.
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet, olive-like scent when being worked; high natural oil content; very heavy and dense.
