
Most likely black walnut; alternatives include black locust or another dark-barked hardwood.
Juglans nigra (probable) · Hardwood; temperate North American species.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate North American species.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
- Hardness
- Approximately 1,010 lbf Janka—Medium hardness.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, but is not reliably weatherproof when exposed to constant moisture.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
End grain appears moderately porous with mostly straight growth rings; the face grain is not sufficiently visible to assess figure or sawing orientation.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood appears gray-brown to dark brown, with a darker oxidized outer zone; sapwood is not clearly distinguishable. Walnut commonly lightens or develops warmer brown tones with age and exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Approximately 1,010 lbf Janka—Medium hardness.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, but is not reliably weatherproof when exposed to constant moisture.
Value & Age
Rough walnut logs or low-grade lumber: roughly $3–10 per board foot; clear, kiln-dried lumber may be considerably 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
- The log appears freshly cut or recently fallen; visible rings suggest several decades of growth, but calendar age cannot be determined from the photograph.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, turning, and decorative millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Workability
Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; interlocked grain can cause localized tear-out, and dense areas require sharp tools.
Finish Recommendations
Air- or kiln-dry thoroughly, then use penetrating oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; sanding sealer can help produce an even finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark heartwood, moderate natural luster, attractive figure potential, and a relatively stable dimensional behavior.