Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to semi-irregular grain with visible open pores and some cathedral patterning; texture is medium and somewhat coarse.
Color Description
Heartwood is a rich, dark chocolate brown with purplish-black streaks; sapwood is pale yellow-gray. The wood tends to lighten and take on a golden patina with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay and rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior paneling, flooring, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Eastern Canada
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on figure and width
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively fresh or salvaged but shows rough mill marks; estimated 5-10 years since harvest based on oxidation and fiber texture.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally managed sustainably through FSC channels.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can sometimes exhibit tearout in areas of irregular grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild and pleasant scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; highly prized for dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Best finished with penetrating oils (Danish or Tung oil) or clear lacquer to highlight natural color without yellowing; polyurethane works well for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate brown color, characteristic open pore structure, and grain density are diagnostic of Juglans nigra.