Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. This sample shows a faint cathedral figure common in flat-sawn boards with moderate texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Often develops a warm patina and lightens slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; likely kiln-dried and finished within the last 5-10 years based on the surface sheen and lack of deep oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, and sands well, though figured pieces may experience some grain tearout.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to clear finishes like linseed or tung oil to pop the grain. Polyurethane or lacquer are recommended for high-wear surfaces like tables.
Identification Confidence
Medium-Low; the image is significantly out of focus, however, the characteristic chocolate brown hues, pore structure, and cathedral grain patterns are highly indicative of Black Walnut.