
Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern and subtle wavy figure
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with contrasting pale yellowish-grey sapwood, moderate natural luster, and dark streaks; darkens slightly with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated kiln-dried lumber, relatively fresh to a few years old based on clean surfaces
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available from sustainably managed forests
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turning
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well with minimal tearout
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac exceptionally well to highlight its natural chatoyance
Notable Features
Prized for its rich color, dimensional stability, shock resistance, and moderate weight