Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. This sample shows a faint cathedral figure with fine, uniform texture typical of a flat-sawn surface.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. This sample exhibits a deep, multi-layered dark stain that obscures natural color but retains the characteristic semi-open pore structure. It develops a rich patina and lightens slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High resistance to decay and rot; moderate resistance to insects.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $18.00 per board foot (standard 4/4 kiln-dried lumber)
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years. Based on the style of the furniture joinery, visible surface wear/scratches, and the oxidation of the finish.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally sustainable and widely available from managed North American forests; not CITES listed.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause tearout. Holds nails and screws securely.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. High tannin content. It is known for its dimensional stability and natural luster.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes exceptionally well. Recommended: Wipe-on oil finishes for depth, or polyurethane/lacquer for durability in furniture applications.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The pore distribution, grain structure, and historical context of the furniture piece strongly suggest stained American Black Walnut, though Birch or Maple with a walnut stain are common alternatives in mass-produced furniture.