Olive Wood from Jerusalem

Olive trees are well known as a source of fruit and oil, but what many people might not know is that the wood itself is among the hardiest of all fruit trees.

Its fine, closed pore finish and resistance to fungi, disease and fire makes it a versatile wood for kitchen utensils, such as the mortar and pestle, and of course it is also used for jewelry craft, namely Olive Wood Beads.

The beautiful contrasting blond and brown of the curled grain, coupled with its durability makes olive wood particularly ideal for Rosary Beads, many of which are produced by co-operatives in the ancient city of Bethlehem where they have been crafted for over 2,000 years.

Most are made by Christian families who have inherited their knowledge and ancient techniques from previous generations. Olive Wood Beads are produced in a wide range of different sizes, however they are almost always oval or spherical in shape owing to their use in traditional rosaries. Cherry wood beads are often used to mark decades.

Whilst the production of Olive Wood Rosaries is still a thriving industry in Bethlehem, many of the strands exported are very old. Crafters often incorporate antique beads from other broken strands that can sometimes be over a Century old!