Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with some cathedral figure visible; showing semi-ring porous texture with medium coarse grain and occasional swirls around knots.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from medium to dark chocolate brown. This sample shows typical grayish-brown oxidation and a dusty surface. Sapwood (if visible) would be pale yellow-gray; color tends to lighten or yellow with UV exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable; heartwood is very resistant to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern rough-cut lumber (under 5 years) based on the fresh machine marks, lack of deep patina, and presence of surface dust/residue.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable, though growth is slow.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Can occasionally produce tearout on figured sections. Dust can be an irritant.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Highly prized for its stability and aesthetic depth.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (tung or linseed) or clear polyurethane to enhance the natural dark tones. Sanding to at least 220 grit is recommended to handle the medium texture.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown hue, grain structure, and typical machining texture are highly indicative of North American Black Walnut.