Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with some wavy and figured ripples; exhibits characteristic irregular grain patterns in some sections.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light to dark chocolate brown, sometimes with a grayish or purplish cast. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Often darkens with age and exposure to UV.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on thickness and figuring (FAS grade).
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate; though the darker patina and oxidation visible suggest it is seasoned or reclaimed wood rather than freshly milled lumber.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; takes stains and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked; can cause allergic reactions in some individuals (dust is a sensitizer). High steam-bending properties.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or Danish oil) are highly recommended to enhance deep colors and chatoyance; polyurethane or lacquer for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the dark chocolate tones and grain ripple patterns are highly characteristic of Walnut, though the low image resolution prevents definitive confirmation of pore structure.