Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and open, with some sections of wavy or irregular grain and characteristic cathedral figure visible in flat-sawn sections.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Grayish-yellow sapwood is visible near the edges. The sample appears oxidized and naturally aged with a low-to-medium luster.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Calculated at approximately $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 20-40 years based on the surface oxidation, subtle surface checking, and accumulation of patina consistent with a reclaimed or long-stored architectural panel.
Sustainability Status
Abundant and sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; FSC certification is widely available.
Workability
Easily worked with both hand and machine tools; planes and glues well, though it can occasionally develop tearout in figured areas. It holds nails and screws securely.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone which can be a mild allergen to some. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural dark tones. Polyurethane or lacquer are recommended for high-wear surfaces like table tops or flooring.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identifying based on the diffuse-porous grain structure, classic semi-open pore texture, and the specific range of brown-to-grayish hues typical of aged Juglans nigra.