Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture and occasional wavy or cathedral patterns on flat-sawn faces.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-gray to whitish sapwood. Color tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown upon prolonged exposure to light and air.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, likely recently milled lumber showing typical raw surfaced characteristics from a workshop environment.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list as threatened.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally tear out on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oils, varnishes, lacquers, and polyurethanes very well. Danish oil or water-based polyurethane can enhance the rich grain without overly yellowing.
Notable Features
Possesses a pleasant, mild characteristic scent when worked. Highly valued for its dimensional stability, shock resistance, and rich natural color.
