Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Semi-ring-porous grain with prominent growth ring patterns; cathedral figure visible at the base of the bowl with straight to slightly wavy grain on the sides.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a creamy medium brown (appearing lighter in this turned sample due to sanding and potential sapwood inclusion). It develops a lustrous patina and can lighten slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay and insects, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetles.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, turned bowls, gunstocks, veneer, and interior paneling.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly turned; the clean surface and lack of oxidation or deep patina suggests the wood was recently machined and finished.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability; turns exceptionally well on a lathe, sands to a high finish, and takes stains and finishes easily, though it can occasionally produce tea-out if tools are not sharp.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant to some; excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (like Tung or Danish oil) or shellac to bring out the natural chatoyance and depth of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the pore structure, growth ring definition, and specific brown-tan hue are classic characteristics of Juglans nigra in a woodturning context.