Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent cathedral grain patterns and some wavy, irregular figure in the lower sections. The grain appears open to semi-open pore.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from medium to dark chocolate brown. This specific sample shows a light brown to grayish-tan hue due to sun-bleaching and age. It lacks the creamy white of fresh sapwood, suggesting an aged heartwood veneer.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (powder post beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior paneling, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for solid lumber; veneer value is lower per square foot.
Wood Age Estimate
30 to 50 years based on the oxidation, minor surface cracking, and the specific style of the cathedral-matched veneer commonly found in mid-century furniture.
Sustainability Status
Stable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Widely available and often FSC certified.
Workability
Excellent; one of the best woods to work with. It planes and sands well, holds stains and finishes beautifully, and glues reliably.
Notable Features
Features a faint, characteristic mildly nutty scent when cut. Contains juglone which can be an allergen for some. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) enhance the deep colors. Polyurethane or lacquer are recommended for durable furniture surfaces. Natural wax can be used to maintain the existing patina.
Identification Confidence
High; the 'cathedral' bloom pattern, color profile, and pore structure are classic indicators of Juglans nigra veneer.