Most likely American Black Walnut; alternatives include White Oak or another dark-stained ring-porous hardwood.
Juglans nigra (probable) · Hardwood; temperate North American species.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate North American species.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
- Hardness
- About 1,010 lbf Janka; Medium.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood has fair decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot. Not ideal for prolonged exterior exposure.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly flat-sawn, fairly straight to gently wavy grain with cathedral arches, prominent growth rings, and a small knot/defect at the left.
Color & Appearance
Grayish to medium chocolate-brown face with lighter sapwood-like streaks; subdued luster and little visible chatoyance. Walnut commonly lightens or develops warmer brown tones with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
About 1,010 lbf Janka; Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood has fair decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot. Not ideal for prolonged exterior exposure.
Value & Age
Approximately US$8–18 per board foot for sound, kiln-dried walnut; figured or premium wide stock may cost 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 photograph; it appears relatively unfinished and shows no dependable age-specific patina.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, turning, and decorative panels.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Workability
Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; knots and changing grain can cause localized tearout. Pre-drilling is useful near edges.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and apply wiping oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; a clear finish preserves contrast, while a light amber finish enriches the brown tones.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark heartwood, attractive cathedral grain, moderate dimensional stability, and good strength-to-weight ratio.
