Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, with subtle cathedral figures and visible growth ring arcs; fine to medium texture with medium porosity.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a deep chocolate brown with darker streaks. It has a dull to semi-bright luster and typically lightens over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable regarding decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack (insect borers).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and novelty items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible oxidation and finish wear suggest this sample is approximately 20 to 40 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable within its native range.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Planing figured grain may cause minor tearout.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked; high shock resistance; contains natural juglone which can be a mild irritant to some users.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or Danish oil) are highly recommended to enhance depth; polyurethane or lacquer for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The dark, chocolate-brown hues, characteristic growth ring patterns, and pore distribution are highly consistent with North American Black Walnut.