American Black Walnut (Veneer)
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Rated as very durable regarding decay resistance, though mostly used indoors. Moderately resistant to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Features a mix of straight-grain and cathedral patterns commonly seen in flat-sawn veneers used for piano cabinetry. The texture is medium and the grain is typically open.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with even darker brown streaks. Color here is enhanced by a dark mahogany or walnut stained finish. Sapwood is naturally creamy white but not visible due to finishing.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Rated as very durable regarding decay resistance, though mostly used indoors. Moderately resistant to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for solid lumber; veneer value is integrated into the instrument's overall value.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Based on the 'Cable' brand logo style and finish wear, the piano likely dates from the mid-20th century (approximately 50-70 years old).
- Sustainability Status
- Stable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified sources exist.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, piano cabinetry, veneers, interior paneling, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly and glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though the dust can be a mild sensitizer.
Finish Recommendations
Traditionally finished with lacquer or shellac on musical instruments. For restoration, a high-quality grain filler followed by a semi-gloss nitrocellulose lacquer is recommended.
Notable Features
Features a faint, characteristic nutty odor when worked. Contains juglone, which can be a mild allergen. Primarily prized for its deep color and dimensional stability.
