Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with visible cathedrals and irregular waves near a knot; open-pored texture with subtle figure and swirl patterns at the heartwood-sapwood transition.
Color Description
Distinct contrast between chocolate brown heartwood and creamy pale-yellow sapwood. Features grayish-purple transition zones and a natural semi-lustrous sheen. Color tends to lighten and become more golden over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, flooring, interior trim, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern kiln-dried lumber; the color is vibrant and lacks the deep oxidation or graying associated with centuries-old reclaimed wood.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; planes and sands easily. Occasional grain tearout can occur around figure/knots. Glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains moderate amounts of juglone. Known for its stability and excellent shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) or clear polyurethane are recommended to highlight the natural grain contrast. Shellac also provides a classic luster.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct transition from chocolate-colored heartwood to light sapwood, coupled with the specific pore structure and cathedrals visible, is diagnostic for Juglans nigra.