Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with a semi-diffuse porous structure. The image shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and some wavy figuring near growth ring transitions.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish brown to dark chocolate brown. This sample shows a muted, dusty brown typical of unfinished or sun-bleached walnut. It often develops a lustrous patina and lightens with age/UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; rated as very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.50 per board foot (depending on thickness and grade).
Wood Age Estimate
The visible oxidation and surface dust suggest the lumber has been air-dried or stored for 1 to 5 years since milling.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout in areas of irregular grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance. Contains natural tannins.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-sanding to 220 grit is recommended. Looks best with penetrating oils (like Tung or Danish oil) to enhance depth, or clear polyurethane for protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic pore distribution, chocolate-brown undertones, and cathedral grain configuration are highly indicative of North American Black Walnut.