Likely black walnut; alternatives include other walnut species or a warm-toned tropical hardwood. Visual identification is uncertain from the board face alone. — Juglans nigra (tentative)

Likely black walnut; alternatives include other walnut species or a warm-toned tropical hardwood. Visual identification is uncertain from the board face alone.

Juglans nigra (tentative) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Black walnut is native to eastern and central North America.
Hardness
1,010 lbf; Medium
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has some decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to gently wavy, with broad irregular bands and oval knots; appears flat-sawn with natural live edges. No clear specialized figure is visible.

Color & Appearance

Brown heartwood with muted reddish/purplish tones and a paler tan sapwood band; color and contrast can deepen or mellow with light and finish. Surface appears unfinished or lightly oxidized.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf; Medium

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has some decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$8–20 per board foot for typical lumber; figured or live-edge slabs may be priced 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 this image; no definite age indicators are visible.

Common Uses

Furniture, slabs, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turning, and decorative trim.

Geographic Origin

Black walnut is native to eastern and central North America.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well; knots and irregular grain may cause localized tearout. Pre-drilling is useful near edges.

Finish Recommendations

Sand evenly and apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or clear polyurethane; a clear finish highlights the color, while a compatible stain can reduce sapwood contrast.

Notable Features

Attractive brown heartwood, contrasting pale sapwood, and often a mild characteristic odor when freshly worked.

Learn more about Likely black walnut; alternatives include other walnut species or a warm-toned tropical hardwood. Visual identification is uncertain from the board face alone. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 6, 2026