Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with a prominent cathedral figure typical of flat-sawn boards. Some slight waviness is visible in the transition zones.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a deep chocolate brown. The sapwood is a pale yellowish-gray. This sample shows moderate luster and the characteristic darkening/mellowing with age, though Walnut can actually lighten slightly if exposed to heavy UV.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on thickness and width grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the cleanliness of the surface and lack of deep oxidation or historic tool marks.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options available.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and holds screws effectively. Minimal tearout occurs even in figured areas.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Danish oil or polyurethane are recommended to highlight the natural chocolate tones; a sanding sealer is often used to prevent uneven absorption.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of chocolate-brown heartwood, distinct cathedral grain pattern, and semi-ring-porous texture is diagnostic for North American Black Walnut.