Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. Shows moderate, semi-ring-porous texture with visible vessel elements and occasional cathedral figure towards the edges.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish brown to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time, it tends to lighten slightly with exposure to UV light, developing a golden-brown patina.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly 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
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced; the crispness of the grain and lack of deep oxidation suggests it is relatively new stock (less than 1-2 years old since processing).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes and glues well and takes stains and finishes exceptionally. Can occasionally produce tearout on figured pieces.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for its stability and strength-to-weight ratio. Dust can be a mild sensitizer.
Finish Recommendations
Drying oils (Linseed or Tung) or polyurethane to enhance the deep brown tones. A sealer is recommended if used with lighter woods to prevent dark dust migration.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood, distinct transition to lighter sapwood, and specific pore structure are diagnostic for Juglans nigra.