Black Walnut (Sapwood/Transition)
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Primarily straight with slight waves; shows a fine, open-pored texture consistent with flat-sawn or rift-sawn orientation.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically dark brown, but this sample presents the pale creamy-white to yellowish-tan of sapwood. It features subtle greyish-purple streaks and a medium luster. Darkens slightly with age.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Heartwood is Very Durable; Sapwood (as seen here) is non-durable and susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, flooring, veneer, turned objects, and gunstocks.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (Note: sapwood is usually valued lower than clear heartwood).
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh-cut or newly surfaced; minimal oxidation or UV graying suggest a sample under 1-2 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Can occasionally exhibit tearout if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Faint, mild nutty scent when worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (like Danish oil or Tung oil) to enhance depth; polyurethane or lacquer for durability. Accepts stains well but usually left natural.
Identification Confidence
High; the pore structure, color transition from tan to purple-brown, and fuzzy surface texture are characteristic of Walnut sapwood.