Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a cathedral figure on the flat-sawn face; exhibiting fine, uniform texture with visible semi-diffuse porous characteristics.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Grayish-tan sapwood is visible near the edges. Color will likely lighten and gain a golden patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, luxury gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern Northern America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on figure and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut or recently surfaced modern stock; shows no significant oxidation or historical patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; takes stains and finishes extremely well, though it is usually left natural to showcase its color.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet odor when being worked. Known for its dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) to enhance depth; clear lacquer or polyurethane for durability and to maintain the dark tone.
Identification Confidence
High: The chocolate brown hue, semi-diffuse porous end grain, and classic cathedral grain pattern on the flat-sawn face are diagnostic of Juglans nigra.