Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight but can be irregular; features prominent cathedral patterns when flat-sawn and occasionally exhibits curly, crotch, or burl figures near knots.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light to dark chocolate brown, sometimes with grey, purple, or reddish streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Modern walnut typically darkens and yellows slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance, 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 - $18.00 per board foot for kiln-dried lumber, significantly less for raw logs ($1.00 - $3.00 per board foot depending on diameter and quality).
Wood Age Estimate
The log appears to be a recent harvest (within 1-2 years) based on the relatively fresh bark attachment and the absence of deep seasoning cracks, likely from a tree approximately 20-40 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes finishes exceptionally. It is known for its ability to hold a sharp edge and fine detail.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet, nutty scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant to some. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear natural oil finishes (Tung or Linseed) to highlight grain, or polyurethane for high-wear surfaces. French polishing with shellac is also traditional.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; The bark texture (deeply furrowed with age, but scaly here), the dark coloration visible in the knot cut-out, and the circular branch collar are highly characteristic of a young-to-mid-growth Juglans nigra.