Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Butternut or a dark-stained domestic hardwood.
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Ontario.
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is substantially less resistant.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to irregular grain, with broad growth-ring arcs and mild wavy figure; appears flat-sawn. End grain is only partly visible and lacks enough detail for certainty.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is medium chocolate-brown with gray-purple and darker streaks; sapwood is pale gray-brown. Walnut commonly lightens or develops warmer brown tones with oxidation and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is substantially less resistant.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; figured or wide slabs may be substantially higher.
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 cut surface appears recently exposed and weathered only at the bark edge; sample age cannot be estimated from this image.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, gunstocks, architectural millwork, veneer, turning, and decorative slabs.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Ontario.
Workability
Generally machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though irregular grain can tear out and silica or mineral inclusions may dull tools.
Finish Recommendations
Sand progressively, then use oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; a clear finish preserves contrast, while wiping oil enriches the brown color.
Notable Features
Dark heartwood, attractive color variation, moderate dimensional stability, and good polishability; the image shows possible mineral streaking.