Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Cathedral figure on flat-sawn face, generally straight grain with some irregular waving or crotch figure potential based on dark swirl patterns
Color Description
Medium to dark chocolate brown heartwood with distinct grayish-tan sapwood visible at the ends; low to medium luster; tends to lighten/yellow over time with UV exposure
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable heartwood; very resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack (sapwood)
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on figure and width
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely air-dried or kiln-dried within the last 5-10 years based on surface oxidation and rough-sawn texture
Sustainability Status
Abundant; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC certified
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well; can occasionally have tea-out if grain is irregular
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, nut-like scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant; prized for dimensional stability
Finish Recommendations
Deepens beautifully with tung oil or boiled linseed oil; clear lacquer or polyurethane is recommended for durability and to maintain the dark color
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate brown heartwood, cathedral grain pattern, and contrast with light sapwood are diagnostic for Juglans nigra