Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with some visible cathedral figure and coarse, open-pore texture typical of a flat-sawn or rift-sawn orientation.
Color Description
Medium to dark chocolate brown heartwood with some greyish-purple undertones; the surface shows significant oxidation and accumulated dust. Sapwood (if present) would be pale yellow-gray.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack (Powderpost beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (depending on width and grade).
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years; based on the deep oxidation of the surface, accumulated grime, and drying checks, this appears to be air-dried or reclaimed stock.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though the open pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone which can be a mild allergen to some woodworkers. Known for excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (Tung or Danish oil) to enhance deep color, or polyurethane for protection. Shellac is excellent as a sealer.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the color, pore structure, and general oxidation are highly characteristic of weathered Black Walnut, though it could potentially be a species of Tropical Walnut (Nogal) without checking the end grain.