Olive
Olea europaea · Hardwood / Exotic
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, North Africa, Middle East), though cultivated globally in similar climates
- Hardness
- 2,710 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; susceptible to insect attack and not recommended for direct ground contact
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and wild grain with swirling, wavy, and interlocked patterns; frequently features burled or marbled figures with high visual movement
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is cream or yellowish-brown with high-contrast dark brown or black streaks. Sapwood is typically pale yellow and clearly demarcated; tends to deepen and yellow slightly with age
Hardness (Janka)
2,710 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; susceptible to insect attack and not recommended for direct ground contact
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $25.00 - $45.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity and slab size
- Wood Age Estimate
- Sample appears relatively fresh to medium-aged (5-20 years) based on vibrant contrast and lack of deep silver oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally sustainable as it is often salvaged from orchard prunings
Common Uses
High-end furniture, veneers, small specialty wood objects, turned bowls, kitchen utensils (cutting boards), knife handles, and fine carvings
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, North Africa, Middle East), though cultivated globally in similar climates
Workability
Difficult to work due to density and wild grain; prone to tear-out during planing. Glues and finishes very well, though high oil content requires surface cleaning before gluing
Finish Recommendations
Natural oils (tung, linseed) or food-grade mineral oil for kitchen items to highlight grain depth; polyurethane or lacquer for furniture. Sand to high grit for a glass-like finish
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet, fruity scent when worked; oily feel; high natural luster; fine, uniform texture with a heavy feel in the hand
