It's pretty subtle, yes. The mineral oil is transparent and it's the same piece of wood so it's not like I could change its color. Just made the grain more deep & profound.
I didn't like how rough the handle felt when wet from fiber expanding, so I sanded it wet to make it smooth
Has grip been a problem when wet? I generally try to keep my knife hand dry, but stuff happens and the raw ho wood still feels secure. That said, the finished look is nicer.