Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy; sample shows a relatively straight grain with visible semi-porous vascular structure common in flat-sawn cuts.
Color Description
Rich dark brown heartwood with chocolate tones, occasionally with a greyish or reddish cast. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-gray. It tends to lighten slightly over time with heavy UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
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 $20.00 per board foot depending on width, figure, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern era; surface oxidation and finish wear suggest a piece produced in the last 10-30 years.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed, though slow-growing.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes finishes exceptionally. Can have a mild, characteristic scent when worked.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; famous for its high luster and excellent dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Responds best to clear oils (Tung or Linseed) and shellac to highlight depth, or polyurethane for durable tabletop protection. Requires fine sanding to avoid grain raising.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the deep chocolate hue combined with the specific pore arrangement and slight purple-to-grey undertones are highly characteristic of North American Black Walnut.