Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Mahogany or another dark-staining hardwood. — Juglans nigra

Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Mahogany or another dark-staining hardwood.

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is considerably less resistant.

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Grain Pattern

Appears mostly straight to mildly irregular, with a broad tangential face and several deep drying/checking cracks; no clear decorative figure is visible.

Color & Appearance

Dark chocolate-brown heartwood with lighter brown variation and a pale sapwood band. Walnut generally develops warmer amber tones and a subtle luster with age and finish.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is considerably less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$8–18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; figured or exceptionally wide stock can be substantially higher.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably estimated from the photograph; the weathered surface and checks indicate exposure or drying, not a specific age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, turning, and decorative joinery.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though localized grain irregularity may cause tearout; predrilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Use a clear oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane after sanding; a conditioner or washcoat can reduce uneven absorption, and sealing end checks helps limit further cracking.

Notable Features

Rich dark heartwood, moderate natural luster, good dimensional stability, and attractive contrast with pale sapwood.

Learn more about Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Mahogany or another dark-staining hardwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 31, 2026