Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and uniform grain consistent with steamed or flat-sawn Walnut, displaying small dark pores throughout.
Color Description
Rich, dark brown heartwood with a slight warm reddish-orange undertone likely due to the finish; naturally ages to a lighter yellowish-brown.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable concerning decay resistance; moderately resistant to insects.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, gunstocks, veneers, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southern Ontario).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width and figure quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (10 to 30 years) based on the clarity of the finish and lack of significant physical wear signs.
Sustainability Status
Abundant and sustainable; not CITES listed or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Workability
Excellent; generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can exhibit tearout during planing if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Features a faint, pleasant, mild scent when being worked; known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oil-based finishes (tung or linseed), polyurethanes, or lacquers to enhance deep color and luster.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The dark, diffuse-porous look and tight grain are hallmarks of Walnut, though the warm hue suggests it is likely stained or finished with a high-amber topcoat.