Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with typical cathedral figure at the bottom center; exhibits flat-sawn characteristics with some medium-texture open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood is medium to dark brown (currently appearing lighter/muted due to lack of finish and dust); sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It will darken or golden with oil and lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable and very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade (assuming FAS grade).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced (1-3 years since harvest); low oxidation suggests a relatively new cut despite the rough surface.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Occasional tearout can occur in figured sections.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet odor when worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant; prized for its balance of strength and weight.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) or clear polyurethane are highly recommended to bring out the deep chocolate tones and natural luster.
Identification Confidence
High; the color hue, specific cathedral grain pattern, and visible sapwood/heartwood transition are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.