Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be irregular or wavy; these live-edge slabs show cathedral patterns on the face and likely possess swirling grain near the limb attachments/crotch areas visible in the texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is yellowish-gray to off-white (clearly visible on the outer edges here). Significant grayish-silver oxidation/patina is present on the surface due to weathering.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Live-edge tables, high-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, and gunstocks.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for live-edge slabs, depending on width and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled within the last 1-3 years but shows signs of outdoor air-drying. The gray surface oxidation suggests it has been exposed to elements for at least one season.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed and classified as Least Concern by the IUCN; widely available and sustained through responsible forestry.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Can occasionally have irregular grain that causes tearout during surfacing.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, sweet scent when cut; contains juglone which can be an irritant; prized for its rich color and stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (like Tung oil or Osmo) are recommended to enhance the deep brown tones and chatoyance; film-forming finishes like lacquer or polyurethane also work well.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate-to-gray heartwood transition, characteristic chunky bark structure, and specific sapwood-to-heartwood contrast are definitive of Juglans nigra.