Keep Your Carving Beautiful
Care Guide
Your olive pit carving is a piece of living art. With proper care, it will develop a unique patina and last for generations.
Keep Away from Direct Sunlight
Olive pits are natural organic material. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the wood to dry out, fade, or develop cracks. Display your carving in a spot with indirect light — a bookshelf, display case, or shaded wall mount is ideal.
Avoid Water and Humidity
Never submerge your carving in water. Avoid wearing it while swimming, showering, or exercising. If the carving gets damp, gently pat it dry with a soft microfiber cloth and let it air-dry completely at room temperature before storing.
Develop a Natural Patina
The most beautiful aspect of olive pit carvings is how they age. With occasional handling, the natural oils from your skin will gradually darken the wood and create a warm, rich patina unique to your piece. This is not a flaw — it is the carving developing character over decades, much like a well-loved wooden instrument.
Proper Storage
When not on display or being worn, store your carving in a soft cotton or microfiber pouch, away from other hard objects that could scratch the surface. For long-term storage, a wooden box lined with soft fabric is ideal. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture.
Gentle Cleaning
Dust can settle into the carved details over time. Clean with a soft, dry brush (a clean makeup brush or camera lens brush works perfectly). Never use water, soap, cleaning solvents, or compressed air. For stubborn dust in deep crevices, a gentle puff of breath followed by light brushing is sufficient.
Long-Term Preservation
These carvings are designed to last for generations. The oldest known olive pit carvings date back over 500 years and remain in excellent condition. With the simple care outlined above, your piece will outlast you — it is meant to be passed down as an heirloom, developing its own story with each new owner.
Questions about caring for your specific piece? Email us at care@olivepitstudio.com — we're happy to help.