Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain but can be irregular; features cathedral figure in flat-sawn sections and occasionally exhibits wavy or curly figure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Over time/exposure, the wood tends to lighten to a golden brown.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width, thickness, and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible oxidation and surface wear suggest a seasoned piece, likely 5-20 years old in its current finished state.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable within its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Very stable once dried.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be an allergen for some; renowned for its excellent shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (tung or linseed) and waxes to highlight natural depth, or clear lacquer/polyurethane for durability.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate brown hues, diffuse-porous structure, and characteristic grain swirl patterns are diagnostic for Juglans nigra.