Likely American black walnut; the pale color may indicate sapwood or a sun-bleached surface. Similar-looking alternatives include other walnut species or stained/washed hardwood.
Juglans nigra (provisional) · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Black walnut is native to eastern and central North America.
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf — Medium
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant to insects and rot.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, with broad, flowing cathedral figure suggesting flat-sawn stock; no clear end grain is visible.
Color & Appearance
Pale tan to gray-brown with subtle darker streaks, unlike typical dark walnut heartwood; light exposure and finish can deepen or warm the color.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf — Medium
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood has useful decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant to insects and rot.
Value & Age
About $8–$20 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; grade, thickness, and local supply strongly affect price.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Not reliably estimable from this image; the surface appears relatively clean, with no obvious heavy patina or wear.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turning, and gunstocks.
Geographic Origin
Black walnut is native to eastern and central North America.
Workability
Generally machines and sands well; figure can tear out during planing. Pre-drill near edges and use standard adhesives and finishes.
Finish Recommendations
Sand evenly and apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; a clear finish will preserve the pale appearance, while oil may warm it.
Notable Features
Walnut often has dark heartwood, lighter sapwood, and attractive color contrast; this board’s visible face is unusually pale for typical heartwood.