Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Butternut or Claro Walnut. — Juglans nigra (most likely)

Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Butternut or Claro Walnut.

Juglans nigra (most likely) · Hardwood; North American domestic species.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; North American domestic species.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and eastern United States.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood offers fair resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is considerably less resistant.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to mildly irregular, flat-sawn grain with subtle cathedral pattern; end grain shows semi-ring-porous vessels and growth-ring contrast.

Color & Appearance

Light-to-medium brown heartwood with gray-brown streaking and pale sapwood; walnut typically darkens and develops warmer, richer tones with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood offers fair resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is considerably less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; premium clear or figured stock can exceed $25.

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

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably dated from the photograph; the surface appears recently milled or lightly weathered rather than antique.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, paneling, gunstocks, turning, veneer, flooring, and decorative millwork.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and eastern United States.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though reversing grain may cause localized tearout; predrilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Use Danish or tung oil for warmth, or lacquer/polyurethane for protection; sand evenly and seal end grain to reduce uneven absorption.

Notable Features

Distinctive dark heartwood, attractive natural luster, moderate dimensional stability, and a characteristic mild walnut scent when freshly worked.

Learn more about Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Butternut or Claro Walnut. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 6, 2026