Holly (Ilex opaca) is used for inlay work, marquetry, piano keys (as an ivory substitute), chess pieces, decorative stringing, knife handles, and turning.

Holly is one of the whitest natural hardwoods available, almost pure white to ivory in color, with a very uniform grain.

Holly is one of the most valuable marquetry woods because its near-white color creates contrast against dark species like Ebony, Wenge, or Walnut.

Holly has a Janka hardness of approximately 1,020 lbf (4,540 N).

Yes. Holly has historically been used as an ivory substitute for the white keys of piano keyboards. Its white color, fine grain, and moderate hardness made it the alternative to ivory after elephant ivory trade was restricted.

Yes. Holly accepts dye-based stains well.

Holly turns gray rapidly after sawing if not kiln-dried quickly, because of blue stain fungi that colonize the freshly cut sapwood.

Clear finishes, lacquer, water-based polyurethane, and shellac, work best on Holly to preserve its distinctive white color. Oil-based finishes can yellow the wood over time.