Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular with subtle cathedral figures and visible knot character; shows typical semi-ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown with visible streaks of darker brown. The sapwood is creamy white/yellow, present along the edges. It tends to lighten and yellow over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior paneling, gunstocks, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for Select/Better grade, potentially lower for this specific knotty/rustic sample.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 2–5 years post-milling based on moderate oxidation, surface grime, and minor checking, but likely harvested from a tree 40+ years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steaming for bending and glues/finishes easily. Can produce a mild faint scent when worked.
Notable Features
Distinctive walnut scent; known for its stability and rich luster; contains Juglone which can be an allergen for some users.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed) are recommended to pop the grain; polyurethane or lacquer for added protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of chocolate-brown heartwood, pale sapwood, grain structure, and typical knot appearance is characteristic of Juglans nigra.