Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. This sample shows a cathedral and flowing grain typical of bowl turning (face grain and side grain intersection), with a fine, even texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light grey-brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is distinct, pale yellowish-gray to nearly white as seen on the rim of the bowl. Darkens significantly over time and with finish application.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to rot and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and specialized turned items like bowls and platters.
Geographic Origin
Native to Eastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern. The sharp edges, fresh sapwood color, and visible sanding marks on the rim suggest it is a contemporary turned piece, likely less than 5-10 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and turns cleanly, glues and finishes exceptionally well, though can produce fine dust that is a known sensitizer.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, earthy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be toxic to some plants and horses. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (tung, linseed) or shellac to enhance chatoyance and depth; polyurethane is common for functional bowls for water resistance. Sanding to 400 grit is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High. The high contrast between the dark chocolate heartwood and the creamy sapwood, combined with the specific grain character and texture, is diagnostic for Juglans nigra.