Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular with frequent figured movement; featuring prominent open-pored vessel elements and subtle cathedral patterns on this turned pen blank
Color Description
Rich dark chocolate brown heartwood with some lighter streaks; medium luster with a characteristic grayish cast that develops into a warm amber patina over time
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable regarding decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, and small turned objects like this pen
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (standard lumber); pen blanks often sell for $2.00 - $5.00 each
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; likely harvested within the last 5-10 years based on current finishing styles and wood color saturation
Sustainability Status
Widely available and sustainable; not CITES listed or on the IUCN Red List of threatened species
Workability
Excellent workability; turns beautifully on a lathe, glues well, and takes a high polish, though the open grain may require a pore filler for a glass-smooth finish
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant; famous for its stability and balance between strength and weight
Finish Recommendations
Cyanoacrylate (CA) glue finish is most common for pens to provide a high-gloss, durable shell; alternatively, friction polish or walnut oil for a natural feel
Identification Confidence
High (Identification based on the characteristic deep chocolate brown hue, the specific size and distribution of the vessel pores visible on the turned surface, and its ubiquity in North American craft woodturning)