Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. This sample shows a semi-straight grain with visible diffuse-porous texture and subtle cathedral peaks appearing through the varnish.
Color Description
Rich dark brown to chocolate heartwood with darker streaks. Sapwood is typically pale yellow-gray. This sample shows significant oxidation and darkening due to age and light exposure, characteristic of older walnut furniture with a deep amber patina.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional decay resistance, though vulnerable to insect attack. Stable and less prone to warping.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior paneling, gunstocks, veneer, flooring, and small wood objects/novelties.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot (standard 4/4 select grade)
Wood Age Estimate
30-60 years. The depth of the ambering in the finish and the distinctive darkening of the walnut fibers suggest a mid-century or older piece of furniture with significant oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Generally sustainable; evaluated as Least Concern by the IUCN. Not listed in CITES appendices. Widely available from FSC-certified sources.
Workability
Excellent. Works well with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well. Can occasionally exhibit grain tearout if the grain is irregular. It holds stain and finishes extremely well.
Notable Features
Faint, mild nutty scent when freshly worked. Known for its exceptional dimensional stability and high chatoyance (luster) when finished.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung oil or linseed oil) enhance the depth of the grain. Polyurethane or lacquer provides excellent protection for high-use surfaces. For antique restoration, shellac is often used.
Identification Confidence
Medium. While the color, grain density, and aged patina are highly characteristic of Black Walnut, the image resolution is blurry, which prevents a definitive check for microscopic pore structure. Red Oak with a dark walnut stain is a possible alternative, though the lack of large visible rays suggests Walnut.