Most likely American black walnut; alternatives include butternut or stained softwood. — Juglans nigra

Most likely American black walnut; alternatives include butternut or stained softwood.

Juglans nigra · Hardwood; likely reclaimed architectural paneling or furniture stock.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; likely reclaimed architectural paneling or furniture stock.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay, but prolonged exterior exposure and insect attack can still cause deterioration.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, close grain with flat-sawn cathedral patterns and occasional darker mineral streaks; no clear special figure.

Color & Appearance

Muted gray-brown to warm brown heartwood with darker streaking and weathered oxidation; sapwood is lighter. The surface appears aged, dirty, and possibly previously finished.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay, but prolonged exterior exposure and insect attack can still cause deterioration.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $6–$15 per board foot for sound, surfaced black walnut; reclaimed architectural stock varies widely.

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

Wood Age Estimate
The wood itself cannot be dated visually; surface weathering and old fastener holes suggest reclaimed material, perhaps several decades old.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, architectural paneling, flooring, doors, veneer, gunstocks, and turning.

Geographic Origin

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

Workability

Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though knots, embedded fasteners, and reversing grain may cause tearout or blade damage.

Finish Recommendations

Remove hardware, clean carefully, and test for old coatings; apply dewaxed shellac, oil, lacquer, or polyurethane after sanding, with conditioner or washcoat if uneven absorption occurs.

Notable Features

Characteristic dark heartwood, attractive cathedral grain, moderate weight, and good dimensional stability; visible holes and knots indicate prior use.

Learn more about Most likely American black walnut; alternatives include butternut or stained softwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 4, 2026