High. The color palette, characteristic cathedral grain arch on the right, and the specific texture of the fiber are indicative of North American Black Walnut. confidence

Black Walnut

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

Type: Hardwood
Origin: Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Hardness: 1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability: Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (sapwood).

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Grain Pattern

Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. This sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and some slightly interlocked grain with a medium texture.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood ranges from light brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. This sample is relatively light, suggesting it may be air-dried or contains significant sapwood. It typically develops a lustrous patina and lightens over time.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf (Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (sapwood).

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value: $10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate: Freshly milled to 2 years; the lack of deep oxidation and the grayish-tan hue suggests a relatively new cut or a sample that hasn't been exposed to significant UV/oil.
Sustainability Status: Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.

Common Uses

High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and specialty wood items.

Geographic Origin

Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.

Workability

Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, and sands well. It glues, stains, and finishes excellently, though some porous areas may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.

Finish Recommendations

Responds best to clear coats like tung oil, linseed oil, or polyurethane to highlight the natural chocolate tones. Shellac or lacquer are also excellent choices for a more traditional look.