Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Honduran mahogany or another dark tropical hardwood.
Juglans nigra (tentative) · Hardwood; possibly exotic/tropical if the alternative is mahogany.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; possibly exotic/tropical if the alternative is mahogany.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
- Hardness
- Approximately 1,010 lbf Janka—Medium hardness.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; reasonable decay resistance, but not intended for prolonged exterior exposure. Insect resistance is moderate.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, fine, and subdued, with elongated darker streaks; the spoon is likely flat-sawn or selectively shaped. End grain is not visible, limiting certainty.
Color & Appearance
Dark chocolate-brown heartwood with lighter brown streaking and little visible sapwood; aged oxidation and handling have deepened the tone, with mild natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
Approximately 1,010 lbf Janka—Medium hardness.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; reasonable decay resistance, but not intended for prolonged exterior exposure. Insect resistance is moderate.
Value & Age
About $8–$18 per board foot for common kiln-dried walnut; this small finished spoon has modest resale value.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The object appears well-used, possibly several decades old; wear and patina cannot reliably establish its manufacture date.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, bowls, utensils, gunstocks, turning, and decorative carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Workability
Generally machines, carves, sands, glues, and finishes well; sharp tools are still advisable to avoid tear-out around the curved bowl.
Finish Recommendations
For display, use polymerized tung oil or a food-contact-appropriate utility finish; for non-food use, wipe-on varnish or oil-based polyurethane works well after fine sanding.
Notable Features
Lightweight-to-moderate density, attractive dark color, fine texture, and characteristic walnut figure; grain orientation suggests hand shaping.
