Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or dark-stained domestic hardwood. — Juglans nigra

Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or dark-stained domestic hardwood.

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood offers fair decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to gently irregular, with broad cathedral-like figure consistent with flat-sawn stock; no clear special figure visible.

Color & Appearance

Muted medium-to-dark brown with gray-brown oxidation, darker streaks, and moderate natural luster; walnut commonly lightens or becomes more golden-brown with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood offers fair decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; premium figure or wide clear boards may cost substantially more.

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

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably dated from this image; visible oxidation and surface wear suggest established use, but not necessarily antique age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, carving, and turning.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well; interlocked areas can tear out, and dense grain may require sharp tooling and predrilling.

Finish Recommendations

Use sanding sealer followed by oil, shellac, lacquer, or clear polyurethane; a clear finish preserves contrast, while oil deepens the brown color.

Notable Features

Distinctive dark heartwood, attractive grain contrast, good dimensional stability, and a characteristic mild nutty odor when freshly worked.

Learn more about Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or dark-stained domestic hardwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 5, 2026