Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight but with wavy/irregular patterns as seen in this cathedral cut. The texture is medium with a naturally open pore structure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light to rich dark brown; some lighter sapwood is visible at the edges. It typically develops a lustrous patina and lightens slightly to a golden brown over many years of UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay even in moist conditions, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior paneling, gunstocks, veneer, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears modern with low oxidation, likely harvested and processed within the last 5-10 years based on the light, clean color and modern surface finish.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes very well, though the open pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint, mild 'nutty' scent when being worked. Known for its moderate weight-to-strength ratio and excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on oils (like Tung or Linseed) or polyurethane to enhance the natural grain. Shellac is also an excellent choice for a vintage look.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic cathedral grain, chocolate-brown hues, and diffuse-porous end-grain texture are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.