Most likely spalted burl wood, probably walnut burl; alternatives include elm, maple, or other figured hardwood burl. — Likely Juglans nigra; alternatives Ulmus spp. or Acer spp.

Most likely spalted burl wood, probably walnut burl; alternatives include elm, maple, or other figured hardwood burl.

Likely Juglans nigra; alternatives Ulmus spp. or Acer spp. · Hardwood; domestic figured/burl material.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; domestic figured/burl material.
Origin
If walnut, eastern and central North America.
Hardness
Approximately 1,010 lbf if black walnut: Medium.
Durability
Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while spalting and sapwood reduce durability.

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Grain Pattern

Highly irregular burl figure with swirling, knot clusters, curl, and prominent dark spalting lines; likely a flat-sawn slab or veneer.

Color & Appearance

Golden brown to amber with dark brown/near-black knots and streaks, strong chatoyance, and glossy finish. Light exposure may deepen and warm the tones.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 1,010 lbf if black walnut: Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while spalting and sapwood reduce durability.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly $20–$80 per board foot for figured walnut burl, depending on size, stability, and defects.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The wood’s biological age cannot be determined visually; surface wear and finish suggest an older finished object, not necessarily old-growth timber.

Common Uses

Decorative tabletops, furniture, veneers, bowls, turning, boxes, and artistic panels.

Geographic Origin

If walnut, eastern and central North America.

Workability

Generally workable, but burl grain can tear out and dull tools; use sharp cutters, light passes, sanding, and stabilized areas where necessary.

Finish Recommendations

Seal with shellac or lacquer, then use clear polyurethane or oil-based finish; fill cracks and voids before final coats.

Notable Features

Exceptional burl figure, chatoyance, knot eyes, voids, and dark spalting; defects may require resin filling or stabilization.

Learn more about Most likely spalted burl wood, probably walnut burl; alternatives include elm, maple, or other figured hardwood burl. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 31, 2026