Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy. This sample shows a straight to slightly cathedral grain with visible longitudinal parenchyma and dark pore streaks common in walnut.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light to dark chocolate brown. This sample appears as a lighter, possibly steamed or sapwood-adjacent piece with moderate luster and characteristic purplish-brown undertones that may lighten with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable and very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, and specialty wood objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $14.00 per board foot depending on width and grading.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber; the light oxidation and clean surfacing suggest it was milled within the last 1-3 years and kept in a controlled environment.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, although it has a faint, characteristic odor when being worked.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when cut; contains juglone which can be an allergen for some; highly prized for its stability and aesthetic appeal.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) or polyurethane to enhance depth; clear coats are preferred to maintain the natural dark tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the pore structure, color variations, and grain texture are classic indicators of North American Black Walnut, specifically a lighter grade or steamed piece.