Olive
Olea europaea · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, Middle East, and cultivated worldwide in warm regions
- Hardness
- 2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attacks
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with highly figured, dramatic contrasting dark brown to black streaks swirling through a lighter background
Color & Appearance
Creamy yellow to yellowish-brown heartwood with striking dark brown or black contrasting streaks and lines, often aging to a deeper amber brown with exposure to light
Hardness (Janka)
2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attacks
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 to $30.00+ per board foot depending on the quality of figure and dimensions
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recently milled, estimated at less than 5 to 10 years based on surface condition and light oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List as threatened, commonly harvested from cultivated orchard trees pruned or removed for agriculture
Common Uses
Fine furniture, decorative items, small turned objects, knife handles, inlay work, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, Middle East, and cultivated worldwide in warm regions
Workability
Moderately difficult to work due to extreme density and irregular grain which can cause tearout; glues and finishes well despite natural oils
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or oil-varnish blends (like Danish oil or teak oil) work best to highlight the rich grain, though sanding to a fine grit and using wax can also yield excellent results
Notable Features
High density, oily feel, distinctive fruity or slightly nutty scent when freshly cut, and exceptionally striking contrasting dark grain patterns
