Olivewood
Olea europaea · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, Middle East, and cultivated worldwide in warm temperate regions.
- Hardness
- 2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular or wavy grain, often featuring high-contrast dark brown or black streaks swirling through yellowish-tan or cream-colored backgrounds.
Color & Appearance
Creamy yellowish-white sapwood sharply contrasting with rich brown to dark brown heartwood, frequently exhibiting dramatic darker streaks and high natural luster. Colors tend to deepen to a warmer amber or golden brown with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15 to 30 USD per board foot for domestic imported stock, significantly higher for specialized turning blanks or figured pieces.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a relatively recent project sample, likely carved and finished within the past few years, showing minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, generally harvested from cultivated orchard prunings or managed agricultural sources.
Common Uses
Small decorative items, fine furniture, turning, carving, knife handles, small boxes, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, Middle East, and cultivated worldwide in warm temperate regions.
Workability
Exceptional turning and carving qualities due to its dense nature, though its high natural oil content can occasionally interfere with gluing and finishing if not properly wiped down.
Finish Recommendations
Takes fine oils (like Danish oil, teak oil, or tung oil) and waxes exceptionally well, enhancing its natural chatoyance and grain contrast without requiring heavy film finishes.
Notable Features
High natural oil content giving it a pleasant, subtle fruity scent when freshly cut, excellent dimensional stability despite high density, and striking color contrast between heartwood and sapwood.
