Most likely black walnut; alternatives include walnut veneer over a soft core or aged mahogany. — Juglans nigra

Most likely black walnut; alternatives include walnut veneer over a soft core or aged mahogany.

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has fair decay resistance, but the visibly porous/crumbly area is not serviceable without stabilization.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine-to-medium grain with subdued cathedral figure; the rough side appears heavily degraded or bark-included rather than normal end grain.

Color & Appearance

Gray-brown to chocolate-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood; exposure commonly fades and grays the surface, while fresh cuts reveal warmer brown tones.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has fair decay resistance, but the visibly porous/crumbly area is not serviceable without stabilization.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; figured or premium clear stock may be higher.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Not reliably determinable from this image; surface oxidation and wear suggest older or weathered stock, not necessarily ancient wood.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, turning, and decorative panels.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the United States.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though tear-out can occur around irregular grain; the degraded edge should be removed.

Finish Recommendations

Use a film finish such as lacquer or polyurethane, or penetrating oil after thorough sanding and sealing; test first because color can vary significantly.

Notable Features

Naturally attractive dark heartwood, moderate luster, and strong contrast with pale sapwood; the rough portion may indicate bark, fungal degradation, or attached substrate.

Learn more about Most likely black walnut; alternatives include walnut veneer over a soft core or aged mahogany. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 20, 2026