So I got some olive from Israel last year and am getting to play with it for the first time. I've just have to say WOW... I have about 4 blocks, each about 4"x3"x8" and there is about 1"-2" heartwood (?) section that runs through each block. The heartwood is amazing! It has so much going on in such a little space. I took a few pics to you show you guys. Keep in mind that this piece is on a paper towel (the little divets should give you an idea of dimension).
Great stuff! I live in Italy and these guys throw out olivewood every year when they prune the trees. I'm trying to find some decent enough for pipemaking, but it hasn't happened yet. Let us know how it goes w/ making a pipe - would love to hear about it!