Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with a visible medium texture; shows some cathedral grain presence but mostly flat-sawn appearance
Color Description
Heartwood is medium to dark brown with a chocolate hue, darkening with age. Sapwood is typically pale yellowish-grey (though mostly heartwood is shown here). Low to medium luster.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, and turned objects
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on width and grade
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively fresh or recently machined, likely less than 2 years since original processing, despite slight surface oxidation
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout with figured grain
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when being worked; known for its dimensional stability and shock resistance
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance the deep brown color, or clear polyurethane/lacquer for protection
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the chocolate-brown color, open pore structure, and grain characteristics are highly indicative of American Black Walnut