English Walnut Burl
Juglans regia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to Eastern Europe and Western Asia; widely cultivated in Europe, North America, and China.
- Hardness
- 1,220 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; susceptible to insect attack and not suitable for outdoor ground contact.
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Grain Pattern
Highly irregular burl figure with wild, swirling patterns, dense bird-eye clusters, and chaotic grain direction typical of root or trunk burl.
Color & Appearance
Golden to medium reddish-brown heartwood with darker brown/black streaks and swirls; displays high luster and significant chatoyance under light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,220 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; susceptible to insect attack and not suitable for outdoor ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 - $35.00 per board foot for solid burl stock; veneer prices vary by sheet quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Veneer appears to be 40-70 years old based on the ambering of the finish, micro-checking in the surface, and classic mid-century furniture application.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed; classified as Least Concern by IUCN, though old-growth large-diameter trees are increasingly rare.
Common Uses
High-end furniture veneers, musical instruments (piano lids/guitars), gunstocks, automotive interiors, and specialty woodturning.
Geographic Origin
Native to Eastern Europe and Western Asia; widely cultivated in Europe, North America, and China.
Workability
Difficult due to highly irregular grain; prone to severe tearout during planing. Gluing and finishing are excellent, though voids in burl may require filling.
Finish Recommendations
Traditional French polish (shellac) or high-quality lacquer to enhance depth/chatoyance. Use grain filler for a perfectly smooth surface.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Highly prized for its aesthetic complexity and deep color contrast within the burl eyes.
