Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro walnut or dark-stained oak.
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Ontario.
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf Janka; Medium.
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, but is not ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to mildly wavy, with prominent cathedral figure on flat-sawn boards and occasional irregular/crotch-like figure; coarse, open pores are visible.
Color & Appearance
Chocolate-brown to purplish-brown heartwood with lighter gray-brown sapwood, darker streaking, moderate luster, and likely oxidation darkening over time.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf Janka; Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, but is not ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$20 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried stock; figured or wide clear boards may exceed $30.
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 boards appear recently milled or stored lumber rather than demonstrably antique; surface patina suggests months to decades, but age cannot be determined visually.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, turning, carving, and decorative slabs.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Ontario.
Workability
Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well; its interlocked or wavy areas can tear out during planing, and predrilling is advisable.
Finish Recommendations
Apply a penetrating oil, hardwax oil, lacquer, or polyurethane after thorough sanding; seal end grain and use a washcoat if blotching occurs.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark color, attractive cathedral grain, moderate weight, and strong contrast between heartwood and sapwood; visible checking is present.