Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight with a medium, semi-porous texture; can occasionally be wavy or curly. This sample shows a straight-grained rift-sawn orientation.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish-brown to a deep chocolate brown. Sapwood is a distinct pale yellowish-grey to nearly white. The color lightens (becomes more golden) with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior paneling, gunstocks, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southeast Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width, figure, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/new stock. The high contrast between the sapwood rail and the heartwood face suggests modern commercial kiln-drying and recent milling.
Sustainability Status
Abundant; not CITES listed. Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN; FSC-certified options are widely available.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Responds exceptionally well to steam bending.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, nut-like scent when working. Known for its high shock resistance and dimensional stability. Dust can be a moderate sensitizer for some users.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (Tong oil, Danish oil) or shellac are recommended to highlight the natural chocolate depth. Polyurethane is suitable for high-wear areas.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood color combined with the creamy white sapwood transition and pore structure is diagnostic of Juglans nigra.