Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with moderate cathedral peaking; showing some wavy and irregular figure in the heartwood/sapwood transition zones. Visible fine pore structure typical of diffuse-porous or semi-ring-porous hardwoods.
Color Description
Mixed character. The heartwood is a medium chocolate brown with grayish undertones. The sapwood is creamy white to light tan. Moderate luster with visible color contrasts between the darker heartwood streaks and pale sapwood.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable heartwood regarding decay resistance; susceptible to insect attack (Powderpost beetles). Very durable for indoor applications.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, and musical instruments (guitar backs and sides).
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Ranges from $10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width, grade, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced. The sharp, rough edges and lack of deep oxidation or UV-induced darkening suggest the board has been processed within the last 6-12 months.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native North American range.
Workability
Excellent. Works well with both hand and machine tools. Planes smoothly, glues well, and takes a high polish. Minor risk of tearout on irregular grain, but generally predictable.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone which can be a mild allergen for some. Known for exceptional dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (tung or linseed) to enhance chatoyance and color depth. Polyurethane or lacquer are excellent for surface protection. Avoid heavy stains that mask the natural variation.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of chocolate-brown heartwood, distinct pale sapwood, grain texture, and pore distribution is characteristic of Juglans nigra.