Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Irregular, book-matched veneer with crotch figure and subtle swirl patterns. The image shows a flat-sawn cathedral effect transitioning into burl-like clusters near the bottom seam.
Color Description
Medium to dark brown heartwood with a greyish hue. Note: This sample appears to have a sun-bleached or cool-toned finish, as natural walnut typically has warmer chocolate tones. Sapwood would be pale yellow-grey.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Highly durable regarding decay resistance, though susceptible to insect attack. Very dimensionally stable.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, musical instruments, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $20.00 per board foot for high-grade lumber; veneer sheets vary by figure intensity.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (5-20 years). The clear finish and precise book-matching suggest contemporary furniture manufacturing techniques.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It nails, screws, and glues well. It develops a high natural polish.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, earthy scent when worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance. Can cause skin irritation in some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability/protection. To restore natural warmth, a penetrating oil finish is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High. The specific grain movement, pore structure, and the way the figure reacts to the book-matching are classic characteristics of Juglans nigra veneer.