Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or another dark tropical walnut substitute — Juglans nigra

Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or another dark tropical walnut substitute

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium
Durability
Moderately Durable; heartwood has reasonable decay resistance but is not generally rated for prolonged exterior exposure.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine to moderately coarse grain with subtle cathedral-like variation and darker mineral streaking; appears flat-sawn or plain-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is medium chocolate brown with darker brown streaks; sapwood is pale tan and sharply contrasting. Walnut can mellow slightly lighter and warmer with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka — Medium

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; heartwood has reasonable decay resistance but is not generally rated for prolonged exterior exposure.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; figured or exceptionally wide stock may cost substantially more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably estimated from this image; the clean surfaces show little evidence of age or patina, suggesting recently milled or lightly used stock.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, gunstocks, architectural millwork, veneer, carving, and turned objects.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; interlocked areas may show minor tearout. Pre-drilling is advisable, and the wood can mildly blunt tools over extended work.

Finish Recommendations

Use a clear oil, wiping varnish, lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane after sanding to 180–220 grit. A washcoat or conditioner can reduce uneven absorption near sapwood and streaks.

Notable Features

Distinctive dark heartwood, pale sapwood contrast, moderate natural luster, and good dimensional stability; the dark line may be mineral streaking or a natural internal mark.

Learn more about Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or another dark tropical walnut substitute in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 9, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Likely Black Walnut; Alternatives Include Claro Walnut Or Another Dark Tropical Walnut Substitute in the encyclopedia

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