Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Highly figured crotch and wavy grain; shows cathedral patterns and significant curl in the darker figured areas. Irregular and interlocked grain typical of stump or junction wood.
Color Description
Rich deep chocolate brown heartwood with lighter tan streaks. Exhibits high natural luster and chatoyance. Darkens and yellows slightly with age, though sun exposure can lighten it over decades.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (sapwood).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, fine cabinetry, musical instruments (guitar backs/sides), gunstocks, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $25.00 per board foot for high-figure or crotch cuts.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the oxidation of the finish and deep patina, the sample appears to be from a piece of furniture 40-70 years old.
Sustainability Status
Secure (Least Concern); widely available and not CITES listed. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Highly figured areas are prone to tearout during planing and require sharp blades and low feed speeds.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an allergen for some but provides natural rot resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils or shellac to enhance chatoyance. Polyurethane or lacquer are used for high-use surfaces to preserve the deep brown tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of deep chocolate coloration, specific crotch figure patterns, and pore structure in the visible grain is characteristic of high-grade North American Black Walnut.