Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Circular end-grain ring pattern with two distinct pith centers (crotch figure potential). The grain is typically straight or wavy with a coarse texture and semi-ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium grayish-brown in this freshly cut/sanded state, usually darkening to a chocolate brown over time. Sapwood is a pale creamy white. This sample shows some transition and slight oxidation staining on the edges.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $20.00 per board foot for high-quality kiln-dried lumber; character slabs or cookies may range from $25 to $100 depending on size.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the growth ring count (approx. 25-30 years visible) and the fresh, sanded appearance with minimal oxidation, the slab is likely from a tree harvested within the last 1-2 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes and glues well and takes finishes exceptionally. It can produce a faint, pleasant nut-like scent during machining.
Notable Features
Known for its unique dark heartwood and excellent dimensional stability once dried. Contains juglone, which can cause skin irritation/respiratory issues for some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (Tung or Linseed) or Danish oil to highlight the grain. Polyurethane or lacquer provides more durability for tabletops.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct ring-porous structure, color transition from pith to sapwood, and the typical bark-to-heartwood ratio are characteristic of Juglans nigra.