High. The chocolate brown coloration, characteristic grain structure, and semi-ring porous end-grain appearance are diagnostic of Juglans nigra. confidence

Black Walnut

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

Type: Hardwood
Origin: Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Hardness: 1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability: Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack (e.g., powderpost beetles).

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Grain Pattern

Straight to irregular with flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible on the face; some swirling grain around a central pith or knot area with a medium-coarse texture.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood ranges from a lighter golden brown to a deep chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood (if present) would be creamy white. It tends to lighten and take on a more amber hue over time with UV exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf (Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack (e.g., powderpost beetles).

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value: $10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width, thickness, and figure.
Wood Age Estimate: Relatively fresh/recent stock (estimated 1-5 years post-kiln) based on the crisp edges, lack of significant graying/oxidation, and modern workshop environment.
Sustainability Status: Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available in its native range.

Common Uses

High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, flooring, and turned objects.

Geographic Origin

Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.

Workability

Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes well, glues reliably, and takes finishes excellently. Can occasionally exhibit surface tear-out if the grain is highly figured.

Finish Recommendations

Responds beautifully to penetrating oils (like Linseed or Tung oil) to enhance depth, or clear film finishes like polyurethane and lacquer for protection.