Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular with curly or wavy figure; exhibits moderate, open pores and occasional cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to a deep chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time, it develops a lustrous patina and usually lightens slightly toward a golden brown.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay/rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the oxidation level and the finish wear, this sample likely represents a piece of furniture that is 20 to 40 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well, although the wood can be brittle. It takes finishes and stains exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked; contains juglone, which can be an irritant for some; known for its high dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) are preferred to enhance deep color and chatoyance; polyurethane or lacquer for high-durability surfaces.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the color and pore structure are highly characteristic of Walnut, though the dark stain/finish visible in the image obscures some fine grain details found in the raw wood.