Claro Walnut
Juglans hindsii · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Western North America, primarily Northern California
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable, with good resistance to rot though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood
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Grain Pattern
Highly figured crotch grain and wavy figure with irregular, swirling patterns characteristic of a branch or trunk union
Color & Appearance
Rich golden brown to dark chocolate brown with dramatic dark contrasting streaks and sapwood variations, possessing a natural luster that darkens with age
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable, with good resistance to rot though susceptible to insect attack in sapwood
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15 to 35 dollars per board foot due to exceptional figure
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated seasoned lumber, cut from a mature tree likely decades old
- Sustainability Status
- Generally not CITES listed or threatened, harvested from limited domestic ranges and orchards in California
Common Uses
High-end custom furniture, live-edge tabletops, gunstocks, musical instrument bodies, decorative veneers, and turning
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily Northern California
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though highly figured grain can cause tearout and requires sharp blades and careful planing
Finish Recommendations
Danish oil, tung oil, lacquer, or wipe-on polyurethane to enhance the chatoyance and deep rich colors of the highly figured grain
Notable Features
Stunning visual contrast, rich natural oils, moderate weight, and excellent dimensional stability once dried
