Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. The sample shows a fine, uniform texture with subtle cathedral patterns and some darker grain streaks typical of flat-sawn walnut.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with even darker brown streaks. Sapwood is a pale yellow-gray. The wood tends to lighten over time with UV exposure, developing a golden-brown patina.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (sapwood).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on thickness and figuring.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 10-20 years based on the oxidation level and the deep, warm ambering of the finish, which suggests exposure to light over a moderate period.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes exceptionally well. It can occasionally have irregular grain that causes tearout.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (tung or linseed) to highlight natural color, or clear polyurethane/lacquer for protection. No pre-stain or grain filler is typically required.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown hue, pore structure, and grain movement are highly representative of Juglans nigra.