Likely black walnut; alternatives include butternut or another brown hardwood.
Juglans nigra (tentative) · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Black walnut is native to eastern and central North America, especially the eastern United States.
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf — Medium (black walnut, approximate).
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay, but is not weatherproof and can be vulnerable to insects.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, fine-to-medium grain with subtle variation and a small knot or bark inclusion; the cut appears flat-sawn. No strong decorative figure is visible.
Color & Appearance
Muted medium brown with lighter areas; walnut heartwood commonly darkens with age, while sapwood is paler. The image shows little obvious luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf — Medium (black walnut, approximate).
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay, but is not weatherproof and can be vulnerable to insects.
Value & Age
Roughly US$8–15 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; highly variable by region, grade, and dimensions.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be reliably estimated from this image; surface color and marks do not establish age.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turning, carving, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Black walnut is native to eastern and central North America, especially the eastern United States.
Workability
Generally machines, sands, and glues well; sharp tools help produce clean surfaces. Repair or fill the visible knot/inclusion as needed.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; a clear finish preserves the brown tone. Test first, as color may deepen.
Notable Features
Walnut often has a mild, characteristic scent when freshly worked and an attractive brown heartwood; this sample shows a prominent small knot or defect.
