Olive Wood
Olea europaea · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East).
- Hardness
- 2700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable regarding decay; however, it is susceptible to insect attack and not suitable for ground contact.
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and interlocked with wavy and curly figure. The end grain shows tight, distinct growth rings, while the face shows swirling, marbled streaks and small bird’s eye-like knots.
Color & Appearance
Creamy golden-yellow heartwood with darker brown and black contrasting streaks and veins. Sapwood is a pale yellowish brown, though often not clearly demarcated from heartwood in small samples. High natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
2700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay; however, it is susceptible to insect attack and not suitable for ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $25.00 - $45.00 per board foot; often sold by weight or as specific turning blanks for higher prices.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Sample appears to be freshly cut or recently turned with minimal oxidation; the tree itself was likely 50-100 years old given the growth ring density for Olea europaea.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable but slow-growing. Often harvested from aged orchard trees no longer producing fruit.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, turned objects, bowls, kitchen utensils (cutting boards), knife handles, musical instruments, and carvings.
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East).
Workability
Difficult due to high density and interlocked grain which can cause significant tearout. It has a high oil content that can interfere with gluing but helps it turn smoothly. Dulls cutters quickly.
Finish Recommendations
Natural oil or wax finishes are best to highlight the marbling and luster. If applying film finishes like polyurethane, a dewaxed shellac sealer is recommended due to natural oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet, fruity odor when being worked. High natural oil content makes it feel somewhat waxy. Highly prized for its dramatic aesthetic contrast.
