Olivewood
Olea europaea · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, Middle East, and cultivated globally in warm, dry climates.
- Hardness
- 2700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Wild, irregular, and wavy grain with striking contrasting dark brown to black streaks swirling against a creamy yellow or tan background, typical of olive wood turning blanks.
Color & Appearance
Creamy yellowish-tan heartwood with dramatic dark brown to nearly black contrasting streaks and veins. The wood has a natural medium to high luster and ages to a deeper amber or golden brown over time when exposed to light.
Hardness (Janka)
2700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15 to 30 dollars per board foot or higher for highly figured bowl blanks.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a modern finished turned piece, likely less than a few decades old, showing fresh patina and good preservation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List. Generally sourced from pruned orchard trees or managed groves.
Common Uses
Fine turned objects, bowls, decorative items, small cabinetry, luxury furniture accents, inlay, and knife handles.
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, Middle East, and cultivated globally in warm, dry climates.
Workability
Exceptional turning qualities. Can be difficult to plane or saw due to irregular grain and density, but takes fine details in carving and sands to an extremely smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Non-toxic food-safe oils (like mineral oil or walnut oil) work wonderfully for turned bowls. Lacquer and shellac also adhere well and highlight the chatoyance.
Notable Features
Known for its rich, fruity scent when freshly cut, high natural oil content, dense weight, and mesmerizing high-contrast grain patterns.
