Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with a moderate cathedral figure in the center. Features minor pin knots and a semi-porous texture.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium chocolate brown with a grayish cast. The sample appears unfinished and slightly oxidized. Walnut typically darkens with age and light exposure, tending toward a warmer amber tone.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on region and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely 1-5 years post-processing based on the clean machine marks and lack of deep patina.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed and classified by IUCN as Least Concern. Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes stains and finishes excellently. Prone to minor tearout on irregular grain portions.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an allergen for some. Known for excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
A penetrating oil or wipe-on varnish (like tung oil or polyurethane) is recommended to highlight the natural grain without masking the color.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of chocolate-brown hues, diffuse-porous grain structure, and characteristic cathedral figure is representative of Juglans nigra.