Olivewood
Olea europaea · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East; widely cultivated globally.
- Hardness
- 2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with striking, irregular dark brown to black contrasting streaks against a yellowish-tan background.
Color & Appearance
Creamy yellowish to golden brown background with high contrast dark brown or black streaks. The wood has a natural medium to high luster and ages to a deeper amber hue over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
2,700 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable, with good resistance to decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 30.00 dollars per board foot for imported turning blanks and specialty lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent manufacture with minimal aging indicators, estimated at less than 5 years old based on clean surface conditions and fresh finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List. Generally considered sustainable as it is harvested from cultivated orchards or managed groves.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, turned objects, specialty items, small decorative carvings, knife handles, musical instruments, and high-end veneer.
Geographic Origin
Mediterranean Basin, Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East; widely cultivated globally.
Workability
Can be challenging to work due to its high density, irregular grain, and interlocking fibers; tends to blunt cutting edges quickly, but glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oils, waxes, and shellac exceptionally well to highlight its natural chatoyance and rich grain patterns; polyurethane also works well if applied over a compatible sealer.
Notable Features
High natural oil content giving it a distinct fruity or slightly oily scent when freshly cut, dense oily texture, and exceptionally rich contrasting grain patterns.
