Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight but can be irregular or wavy; showing prominent growth rings on this turned bowl with a cathedral-like figure on the face.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to a dark chocolate brown; this sample shows a medium olive-brown hue common in air-dried or younger walnut. It develops a lustrous patina and lightens slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items (bowls), and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (standard grade); higher for figured or wide planks.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly turned (1-2 years since harvest); the lack of deep oxidation and the crispness of the turning suggests modern production.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; turns beautifully on a lathe, glues and finishes well, though it can have occasional grain tearout on figured sections.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be a mild allergen for some individuals; known for its excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Vitreous finishes like wipe-on poly or Danish oil are recommended to highlight the grain; shellac or lacquer also work well for a high-gloss look.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic pore structure, color transition in the growth rings, and the context of a turned bowl are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.