Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be irregular or wavy; this sample shows a cathedral-like flat-sawn figure with subtle crotch-like swirl and some characteristic pin knots.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish-brown to a deep chocolate brown with dark brown streaks. Sapwood is typically pale yellow-gray to nearly white. This sample shows deep oxidation and rich patina, darkening with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on width and figure quality.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible surface oxidation and fine checking suggest this is a seasoned piece, likely air-dried for several years or reclaimed from an older furniture element.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent workability with hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it has a moderate blunting effect on cutters. Scurfing or tearout can occur in figured areas.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Contains juglone which can be an allergen for some. Known for its dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Pure tung oil or Danish oil to highlight the natural chocolate tones; polyurethane or lacquer for high-wear surfaces. French polish (shellac) is excellent for decorative pieces.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep coffee-brown coloration combined with the semi-ring-porous grain structure and specific 'inky' dark streaks are diagnostic of Juglans nigra.