
Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or dark-stained tropical walnut substitutes.
Juglans nigra (probable); Juglans hindsii is an alternative. · Hardwood; temperate North American species.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate North American species.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
- Hardness
- Janka about 1,010 lbf — Medium.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood offers moderate decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to mildly irregular grain with prominent cathedral/curly areas and dark streaking; likely flat-sawn, with no clear evidence of burl or quarter-sawn figure.
Color & Appearance
Warm chocolate-brown heartwood with lighter brown streaks and relatively pale sapwood, though the surface appears uniformly aged or finished. Walnut develops richer golden-brown tones and can lighten somewhat with prolonged light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Janka about 1,010 lbf — Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood offers moderate decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; highly figured or wide clear stock may exceed $25.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be reliably dated from a photograph; visible oxidation and finish suggest years to decades of service, not necessarily old-growth age.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, architectural panels, gunstocks, veneer, flooring, turning, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Workability
Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though irregular grain can cause localized tear-out; predrilling is advisable.
Finish Recommendations
Use a penetrating oil, shellac, lacquer, or clear polyurethane after thorough sanding; a clear finish preserves contrast, while dyes can obscure natural figure.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark color, attractive luster, dimensional stability, and occasional swirling figure around knots or growth irregularities.