Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Semi-ring-porous with a straight to irregular grain. The sample shows a concentric growth ring pattern in the turned recess (end grain/transition) with flat-sawn cathedral figures on the face. Some minor knots and swirling figures are present near the edges.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. This sample appears to have a medium-to-dark brown tone with golden highlights under a gloss finish. It will typically lighten or yellow slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (especially the narrow, pale sapwood).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects like bowls, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood is likely from a mature tree (50+ years), but the sample itself appears recently processed and finished (less than 1 year) based on the high-gloss sheen and lack of surface wear or oxidation patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available within its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes very well. It can exhibit some tearout in areas of irregular grain during planing or turning.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance. High tannin content can react with iron to cause dark staining.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (like Danish or Tung oil) to enhance depth, followed by a film-building topcoat like polyurethane or lacquer for protection and sheen as seen in this sample.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of chocolate-brown heartwood, semi-ring-porous structure visible in the turned end-grain, and the specific luster and grain figure is classic for American Black Walnut.