Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with hints of cathedral patterns visible; medium texture with semi-ring-porous arrangement.
Color Description
Medium to dark brown heartwood with chocolate tones. Sapwood is typically pale yellow-gray, though not visible here. Tends to lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, and flooring.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Southern Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for Select & Better grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 20-40 years based on the oxidation of the finish and the style of the furniture construction visible in the grain orientation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can have moderate blunting effects on cutters.
Notable Features
Faint, mild odor when being worked; contains juglone which can be an irritant; prized for its rich color and dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) are highly recommended to enhance the natural depth and chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic pore structure, color variations, and cathedral grain figure are classic indicators of Juglans nigra in a furniture application.