Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture, featuring flat-sawn top surfaces with subtle cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-brown sapwood, exhibiting a moderate natural luster that tends to lighten slightly with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8 to 15 dollars per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Mid to late 20th century (approximately 40 to 60 years old based on the vintage style and oxidized finish patina)
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, widely available from sustainably managed North American forests, not listed on CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, interior paneling, and specialty woodturning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though care is needed to avoid tearout on figured or irregular areas.
Finish Recommendations
Takes traditional oil finishes, varnishes, lacquers, and polyurethane exceptionally well; surface preparation requires fine sanding up to 220 grit for a smooth luster.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich shock resistance, exceptional dimensional stability, and deep natural chocolate-brown color which requires minimal staining.
