Most likely spalted black walnut; alternatives include spalted maple or ambrosia maple.
Juglans nigra (probable) · Hardwood; domestic North American, figured/spalted slab.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; domestic North American, figured/spalted slab.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and eastern United States.
- Hardness
- About 1,010 lbf Janka—Medium.
- Durability
- Moderately durable heartwood; reasonably decay resistant indoors but not intended for prolonged weather exposure. Sapwood is less resistant to insects and rot.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly irregular and wavy with pronounced dark zone lines, burl-like distortion, and flat-sawn cathedral grain; the slab retains live edges.
Color & Appearance
Warm golden-brown to chocolate-brown heartwood with darker streaks and pale gray-brown sapwood. The orange-brown face appears freshly milled; walnut generally darkens slightly with oxidation while sapwood remains lighter.
Hardness (Janka)
About 1,010 lbf Janka—Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable heartwood; reasonably decay resistant indoors but not intended for prolonged weather exposure. Sapwood is less resistant to insects and rot.
Value & Age
Approximately US$15–40 per board foot for attractive, dry figured slabs; exceptional stabilized material may exceed this.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Tree age cannot be determined from the photograph; the slab appears recently milled, with no reliable weathered patina.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, live-edge tables, cabinetry, shelves, turning, veneer, and decorative panels.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and eastern United States.
Workability
Generally machines and sands well, though spalting and irregular grain can cause tear-out and localized softness. Pre-drilling is advisable; glue and finishes are usually uncomplicated.
Finish Recommendations
Dry thoroughly, flatten, and stabilize punky areas with thin epoxy if needed; use sanding sealer followed by oil, wiping varnish, lacquer, or polyurethane.
Notable Features
Strong contrast from spalting, live edge, variable density, and attractive chatoyant figure; walnut often has a mild earthy scent when freshly cut.