High; the yellowish-cream base color combined with the specific streaking and the fine texture on a turned pen blank is highly characteristic of Olea europaea. confidence

Olive Wood

Olea europaea · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood

Type: Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Origin: Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East).
Hardness: 2,710 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability: Moderately Durable; vulnerable to insect attack and not recommended for ground contact or outdoor use.

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Grain Pattern

Interlocked, wavy, and irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture; often features high-contrast streaks and marbling

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is a cream or yellowish brown with darker brown or black contrasting streaks. Sapwood is distinct pale cream. Colors tend to deepen and rich with age and exposure to light.

Hardness (Janka)

2,710 lbf (Extremely Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; vulnerable to insect attack and not recommended for ground contact or outdoor use.

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value: $15.00 - $30.00 per board foot, depending on the intensity of the figure.
Wood Age Estimate: Modern (likely less than 10 years old), based on the crisp finish of the pen blank and lack of significant oxidation or darkening.
Sustainability Status: Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally sustainable.

Common Uses

Turned objects (especially pens and bowls), high-end furniture, flooring, veneer, and kitchen items like cutting boards.

Geographic Origin

Mediterranean Basin (Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East).

Workability

Challenging due to high density and interlocked grain which can cause tearout. Glues and finishes well; contains natural oils that may require solvent-wiping before gluing.