Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
The grain is typically straight but can be irregular; this sample shows a straight-to-slightly-wavy flat-sawn pattern with visible open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish-brown to a chocolate brown. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. This sample displays a rich, muted chocolate brown characteristic of seasoned walnut, likely to lighten slightly with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very 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 musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the surface oxidation and the context of the underlying OSB, this appears to be a modern offcut, likely processed within the last 5-10 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools. It planes and glues well and holds nails and screws securely. The main challenge is potential fiber tearout on figured sections.
Notable Features
Features a faint, pleasant, mild scent when being worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance. Contains juglone, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to most finishes. Danish oil or linseed oil enhances character; polyurethane provides durable protection. To prevent the natural lightening over time, finishes with UV inhibitors are recommended.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive chocolate brown color, pore structure, and grain characteristics are diagnostic of Juglans nigra, especially as contrasted against the OSB background.