Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Mainly straight with wavy sections; shows semi-porous texture and occasional figured swirls common in cathedral grain patterns.
Color Description
Rich chocolate brown heartwood with darker streaks; lighter tan or creamy white sapwood visible at the edges. Tends to develop a golden-brown patina and lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high resistance to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (specifically powderpost beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on thickness, width, and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the crisp surface texture and machine-finished appearance.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed, though slow-growing and high demand requires responsible sourcing.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well. Can occasionally exhibit tear-out in figured areas.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, nut-like scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; known for excellent dimensional stability and strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) which enhance depth, as well as polyurethane or lacquer for added protection.
Identification Confidence
High; the dark chocolate hues, pore structure, and characteristic grain transition between heartwood and sapwood are definitive for Juglans nigra.