Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with cathedral patterns and visible growth rings; slight wavy figure present near the right-side knot/defect.
Color Description
Heartwood is a rich, dark chocolate brown with purplish undertones and grayish streaks. It will likely lighten over time with UV exposure to a golden brown.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable and very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (sapwood).
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on region and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced stock; surface appears clean with minimal oxidation and modern industrial milling marks on the edge.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Can have occasional tearout with figured grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet odor when worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant; excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (Tung or Danish) to enhance natural color; clear polyurethane or lacquer for durability; wax for a soft luster.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate color, characteristic grain pores, and specific brown-to-purple value are diagnostic of Juglans nigra.