Olive
Olea europaea · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin, Europe, Middle East, and cultivated globally in warm temperate regions.
- Hardness
- 2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and wavy grain with striking contrasting dark brown to black streaks, featuring wild cathedral patterns around knots and swirls.
Color & Appearance
Creamy yellowish-white sapwood sharply contrasting with rich golden-brown to dark brown heartwood, featuring dramatic dark streaks, high natural luster, and darkening to a deeper amber hue with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 to $30.00+ per board foot depending on width, thickness, and figure intensity.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut live-edge slab with minimal surface oxidation, estimated less than 1 year since milling.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, evaluated as Least Concern by the IUCN. Sourced primarily from cultivated orchards or managed agricultural pruning.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, decorative turnings, small wooden specialties, carved items, knife handles, and high-end interior accents.
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin, Europe, Middle East, and cultivated globally in warm temperate regions.
Workability
Generally moderate to difficult to work due to its dense, interlocked, and irregular grain which can cause tearout; glues and finishes well despite high natural oil content.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, wipe-on varnish, or shellac work exceptionally well to highlight the chatoyance and rich color contrast without sealing issues from natural oils.
Notable Features
Dense and heavy with distinctive, highly decorative contrasting dark grain patterns, fruity scent when freshly cut, and natural oily feel.
