Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular with curly or wavy figure; moderate texture with a natural luster.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish brown to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Typically darkens with age and finishing.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects like the bowl pictured.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The finished object appears modern or mid-century (10-50 years) based on the clear coat patina and turned style.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it can exhibit some tearout on figured pieces.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when being worked; known for its high shock resistance and dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (tung or linseed), lacquer, or polyurethane to enhance the deep chocolate tones.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the deep brown hues, diffuse-porous look under finish, and typical turning characteristics strongly suggest Black Walnut.