Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and open, but can be irregular. These samples show a typical flat-sawn cathedral pattern and some subtle waving. Texture is medium and semi-porous.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Grayish-purple cast is visible in these specific samples. It tends to lighten over time with UV exposure, becoming more gold/amber.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (powder post beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wooden items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width, length, and grade (Select & Better usually commands the premium).
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be relatively fresh-cut or kiln-dried stock, likely less than 5 years old based on the crisp edges and lack of deep oxidation or surface patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Can occasionally have irregular grain that causes tearout, but generally sands to a very smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance. Fine dust can be a sensitizer for some users.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Oil-based finishes (Tung oil, Linseed oil, or Danish oil) are popular for enhancing the natural dark color and depth. Polyurethane provides a durable protective coat.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown color, pore structure, and grain movement are classic indicators of Juglans nigra, the premier North American furniture hardwood.