Most likely walnut; alternatives include sapele or another dark tropical hardwood.
Juglans nigra (probable; alternatives: Entandrophragma cylindricum). · Hardwood; walnut is temperate, while sapele is exotic/tropical.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; walnut is temperate, while sapele is exotic/tropical.
- Origin
- Black walnut: eastern and central North America. Sapele: tropical West and Central Africa.
- Hardness
- Black walnut: about 1,010 lbf, Medium. Sapele: about 1,410 lbf, Hard.
- Durability
- Walnut: Moderately Durable; reasonable rot resistance but not ideal for prolonged weather exposure. Sapele is generally Durable.
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Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight, fine-textured grain with subtle waviness and possible mild interlock; appears flat- or rift-sawn. No clear decorative figure is visible.
Color & Appearance
Gray-brown to medium brown with darker streaking and subdued luster; likely oxidized or weathered. Walnut commonly warms toward richer brown with age, while sapele may become redder.
Hardness (Janka)
Black walnut: about 1,010 lbf, Medium. Sapele: about 1,410 lbf, Hard.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Walnut: Moderately Durable; reasonable rot resistance but not ideal for prolonged weather exposure. Sapele is generally Durable.
Value & Age
Walnut: roughly $8–$18 per board foot; premium figured stock costs more. Sapele: approximately $7–$15 per board foot.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The image suggests surface oxidation or handling wear, but cannot establish chronological age; likely years to decades rather than reliably datable.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, joinery, veneer, flooring, turned work, and instrument parts.
Geographic Origin
Black walnut: eastern and central North America. Sapele: tropical West and Central Africa.
Workability
Generally machines and sands well; walnut is cooperative, while sapele’s interlocked grain can tear out and dull tools. Pre-drilling is advisable.
Finish Recommendations
Sand progressively and apply dewaxed shellac, oil, lacquer, or clear polyurethane; a wash coat can reduce uneven absorption.
Notable Features
Fine texture, attractive brown coloration, and good dimensional stability; sapele may show ribbon or chatoyant figure when quarter-sawn.
