Olivewood
Olea europaea · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, Middle East, and cultivated globally in warm temperate regions
- Hardness
- 2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attacks if sapwood is exposed
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Grain Pattern
Wild, irregular, and highly figured interlocked grain with dramatic dark brown to black streaks contrasting against yellowish-tan background
Color & Appearance
Creamy yellowish-tan background with striking dark brown to near-black streaks and veins, moderate natural luster, ages to a deeper amber-gold color over time
Hardness (Janka)
2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attacks if sapwood is exposed
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 30.00 USD per board foot for standard stock, significantly higher for heavily figured burls or specialized turning blanks
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be freshly crafted into this handle within the last few years, utilizing well-seasoned dry stock estimated at several decades old
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely cultivated and considered sustainable from managed agricultural sources
Common Uses
Fine furniture, turned items, small specialty wooden items, knife handles, inlay work, small decorative carvings, and luxury items
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, Middle East, and cultivated globally in warm temperate regions
Workability
Moderately difficult to work due to high density and irregular grain which can cause tearout during planing; turns and glues exceptionally well, and takes a high natural polish
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils such as tung oil, Danish oil, or friction polishes work exceptionally well to highlight the rich figure and natural luster without masking the tactile feel
Notable Features
High natural oil content which gives it a pleasant fruity scent, excellent dimensional stability despite high density, and striking visual contrast
