Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a moderate, uniform texture. Shows a subtle cathedral figure in the center heartwood section. Grain is typically easy to work but can occasionally be irregular or wavy near knots.
Color Description
Heartwood is a classic chocolate brown with some darker streaks, while the sapwood is a distinct creamy white to pale yellow. Over time, the heartwood tends to lighten slightly to a more golden brown with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable. Highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability once seasoned.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $20.00 USD per board foot for live-edge slabs, depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled (Green). The presence of sawdust, bright sapwood, and lack of oxidation or graying suggest this slab was cut very recently, likely within the last few weeks.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available within its native range.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands well, holds nails and screws securely, and glues easily. It emits a pleasant, characteristic scent when worked.
Notable Features
Distinctive chocolate aroma when cut. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant to some woodworkers. Known for its high luster and exceptional finishing qualities.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear film finishes like polyurethane or lacquer, or penetrating oils (tung or linseed) to enhance the deep color and chatoyance of the heartwood.
Identification Confidence
High. The sharp contrast between the creamy sapwood and chocolate heartwood, combined with the bark texture and grain structure, are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.