Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with a semi-ring-porous structure; exhibits a coarse but uniform texture and some cathedral figure toward the edges.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a golden brown to a deep chocolate brown with darker streaks. The sample shows a distinct pale yellowish-white sapwood edge on the left. It will develop a rich patina and lighten slightly toward a honey color over decades of UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade (FAS).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced (0-5 years) based on the crisp pencil marks, lack of oxidation/graying, and sharp இயந்திரம் edges.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes stains and finishes exceptionally well, though it has a distinct scent when cut.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy odor when worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; famous for its grain stability and finishing luster.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) or clear polyurethane are recommended to highlight the natural depth; shellac is also an excellent traditional sealer.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of chocolate heartwood, stark white sapwood contrast, characteristic pore structure, and use in furniture-making is diagnostic of Juglans nigra.