Collection: Olive, African

African Wild Olivewood, Olea capensis, is also known as Black Ironwood, Elgon Olive, and Ironwood Olive due to its extremely density. The specific gravity for this species averages .90 to .99 with some pieces that are dense enough to sink in water! Its Janka hardness boasts an impressive 2,700 lbf.  African Olive is from Southeastern Africa and ranges from a shrub to a small tree, reaching a typical height of 15-30 ft. tall with a diameter of 1-2 ft. The wood has a distinct fruity fragrance while being worked. Classic Olive colors include golden, tan, and reddish-brown with black variegated veins. This species can be somewhat difficult to work when it contains figure. The oils in the wood create a high natural polish. African Olive produces extremely unique boards that may include wild color patterns, fiddleback, and areas of burl eyes; no two are alike! Use your creative eye to design a distinctive woodworking project from this special wood.