Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with some subtle cathedral patterns and fine, uniform texture. Minimal figure visible in this specific cut, representing a clear or select grade.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a creamy medium brown to a dark chocolate/coffee brown. It exhibits a low to medium natural luster and tend to lighten or develop a golden-brown patina over many years of UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability after seasoning.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Southern Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; likely kiln-dried and finished within the last 5-10 years based on the uniformity of the surface and lack of deep oxidation or heavy use marks.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed and classified as 'Least Concern' by the IUCN; widely available under FSC certification.
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; planes and sands easily. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally produce tearout with figured grain.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild, and pleasant spicy scent when worked. High tannin content can react with iron to cause dark staining. Low risk of toxicity, though dust is a known sensitizer.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (tung or linseed) to enhance depth, or a clear polyurethane/lacquer for protection. A slight 'ambering' finish complements its natural tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate hues, characteristic fine pores, and straight grain structure are hallmark traits of Juglans nigra in a finished state.