Most likely reclaimed spalted/ambrosia black walnut; alternatives include spalted maple or heavily weathered oak.
Juglans nigra (probable) · Hardwood; reclaimed/figured
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; reclaimed/figured
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Mississippi and Ohio River regions.
- Hardness
- About 1,010 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.
- Durability
- Moderately durable heartwood; reasonable decay resistance but spalting and weathered zones are less structurally reliable and should not be assumed durable outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight to irregular grain with dramatic dark zone lines, likely fungal spalting; appears flat-sawn or live-edge, not enough end grain visible to confirm.
Color & Appearance
Warm tan to medium brown wood with near-black streaks and gray-dark weathering; walnut typically darkens slightly and develops richer brown tones with age, while exposed areas may fade.
Hardness (Janka)
About 1,010 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable heartwood; reasonable decay resistance but spalting and weathered zones are less structurally reliable and should not be assumed durable outdoors.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$25 per board foot for attractive figured/reclaimed walnut; heavily degraded material may be worth less.
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 sample appears reclaimed or substantially weathered, but its chronological age cannot be determined visually; likely years to decades of exposure or use.
Common Uses
Furniture, live-edge slabs, decorative panels, cabinetry, turning, veneer, and art objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Mississippi and Ohio River regions.
Workability
Generally machines and sands well, though spalting, voids, embedded debris, and irregular grain can cause tear-out, uneven hardness, and edge breakout. Pre-drilling and sharp tooling are advisable.
Finish Recommendations
Stabilize loose areas with thin epoxy or cyanoacrylate, fill voids as needed, then sand carefully and apply wiping oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first because porous dark zones absorb unevenly.
Notable Features
Strong contrasting zone lines, probable spalting, visible checking/voids, and a distinctive decorative appearance; walnut may have a mild earthy scent when freshly cut.