Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, slightly wavy with a coarse, open-pored texture and subtle cathedral peaks. Some small burls and pin knots are visible.
Color Description
Medium to dark chocolate brown heartwood with grayish undertones. The sapwood is creamy white (visible at edges). It typically develops a lustrous patina and lightens slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample (5-20 years), based on the sharpness of the pencil markings and the lack of deep oxidation or wear.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed and classified as Least Concern by the IUCN; widely available from FSC-certified sources.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout when grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Faintly acidic dust can be a mild irritant. Known for excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Responds best to oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) which enhance grain depth; clear polyurethane or shellac are also excellent choices for durability.
Identification Confidence
High; the color range, grain structure, open-pore texture, and appearance of the sapwood are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.