Most likely curly claro walnut; alternatives include figured black walnut or walnut burl. — Juglans hindsii × Juglans regia (commonly sold as claro walnut)

Most likely curly claro walnut; alternatives include figured black walnut or walnut burl.

Juglans hindsii × Juglans regia (commonly sold as claro walnut) · Hardwood; North American specialty/exotic figure.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; North American specialty/exotic figure.
Origin
Primarily California and the Pacific Northwest; related walnut stock also comes from the eastern United States.
Hardness
About 1,010 lbf Janka; Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has moderate resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is less resistant.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Highly figured, irregular and wavy with pronounced curl/quilt-like chatoyance, changing around knots or possible burl areas; likely flat-sawn or slab-cut.

Color & Appearance

Warm tan, honey, gray-brown, and reddish-brown heartwood with darker knot zones; strong luster and chatoyance. Walnut generally mellows and may darken slightly with age and UV exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

About 1,010 lbf Janka; Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has moderate resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is less resistant.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$20–60+ per board foot for attractive figured stock; exceptional veneer-grade pieces may exceed this.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The board’s age cannot be reliably determined from appearance; it appears relatively clean and recently finished, not demonstrably antique.

Common Uses

High-end furniture, cabinet panels, gunstocks, veneers, small boxes, turning, and decorative art objects.

Geographic Origin

Primarily California and the Pacific Northwest; related walnut stock also comes from the eastern United States.

Workability

Generally machines and sands well, though the changing grain can tear out; use sharp cutters and light finishing passes. Glues and fastens readily.

Finish Recommendations

Apply a washcoat or thin seal coat, then use wiping oil, shellac, lacquer, or satin polyurethane; test first because finish can dramatically deepen the figure.

Notable Features

Exceptional three-dimensional chatoyance, dense swirling figure, and prominent knot/figure transitions; walnut has a mild characteristic scent when freshly worked.

Learn more about Most likely curly claro walnut; alternatives include figured black walnut or walnut burl. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 4, 2026