Olive
Olea europaea · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and Middle East)
- Hardness
- 2,710 lbf - Extremely Hard
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; vulnerable to insect attack and not recommended for direct ground contact or extreme outdoor exposure.
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and interlocked with wavy and curly figures; often features dramatic 'marble-like' swirling grain due to the slow growth of the tree.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a creamy or yellowish brown with high-contrast dark brown to black streaks; sapwood is pale yellow. Colors tend to deepen and become richer with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
2,710 lbf - Extremely Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; vulnerable to insect attack and not recommended for direct ground contact or extreme outdoor exposure.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $25.00 - $45.00 per board foot (varies greatly by figure and size)
- Wood Age Estimate
- The sample appears to be from a mature tree (50+ years) given the density of the grain, but the finished surface suggests modern manufacture with some light surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable as a byproduct of olive fruit industries.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, turnery (bowls/spoons), kitchenware, knife handles, decorative veneers, and small specialty wood objects.
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and Middle East)
Workability
Challenging due to high density and interlocked grain which can cause tearout; contains high natural oil content which can interfere with gluing but results in a superb natural polish.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax for kitchen items; clear lacquer or carnauba wax for decorative pieces to highlight the chatoyance.
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet, fruity scent when worked; very heavy and dense; the high oil content makes it naturally water-resistant for kitchen use.
