Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with occasional wavy or curly patterns; features a semi-porous texture visible as fine dark streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish brown to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time, it gains a rich patina and may lighten slightly with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on grade and widening.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible oxidation and finish wear suggest this sample is approximately 10 to 30 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally produce tearout if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for its shock resistance and dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or wipe-on varnishes are recommended to highlight depth; wide range of finishes such as polyurethane or lacquer work well.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate brown color, characteristic pore structure, and straight grain are diagnostic markers for North American Black Walnut.