Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a cathedral figure visible in the upper center; semi-porous texture with moderate natural luster.
Color Description
Rich dark chocolate brown heartwood with some lighter tan streaks. Lacks the creamy white sapwood in this cut. It will typically lighten and develop a honey-gold patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (powder post beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 – $15.00 per board foot (depending on width and grade)
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh milled material; the lack of significant yellowing or grey oxidation suggests it has been surfaced recently.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can occasionally produce grain tearout if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked. Dust can be a sensitizer; contains juglone, which is toxic to certain plants.
Finish Recommendations
Danish oil or rubbed-on tung oil to enhance depth and chatoyance; clear polyurethane for durability in high-wear areas.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown hue, pore structure, and cathedral grain pattern are quintessential markers of American Black Walnut.