Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to moderately irregular grain with a medium texture; exhibits some cathedral patterning and subtle figure on the carved rope detailing.
Color Description
Medium to dark chocolate brown heartwood with a warm, amber-toned finish. The wood shows significant depth and luster, with typical darkening and mellowing of color due to age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; highly resistant to decay and moderately resistant to insect attack, though typically used indoors for furniture.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, gunstocks, veneer, and carved ornamental work as seen in this chair frame.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $18.00 per board foot for kiln-dried select grade
Wood Age Estimate
30 to 50 years based on the oxidation of the finish, the style of the rope carving, and the wear on the sharp edges of the molding.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available from managed forests.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; planes and carves easily, though figured areas may require care to avoid tearout. Glues and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance. Contains juglone, which can be an allergen for some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Traditional lacquer or oil-based polyurethane to enhance the natural depth; shellac is also common for period-style furniture to achieve a deep luster.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate hue combined with the tight, semi-porous grain structure and the characteristic way it takes a stained finish is indicative of Walnut used in traditional furniture.