Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight and open with a medium-coarse texture; the piece shows a flat-sawn orientation with some subtle cathedral figure beneath the carved areas.
Color Description
Rich dark chocolate brown heartwood with a deep, aged patina. Evidence of warm amber undertones and natural darkening due to oxidation; sapwood would be pale yellow-gray but is not visible here.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay though susceptible to insect attack (Powderpost beetles).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, and fine wood carving.
Geographic Origin
Eastern Northern America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $18.00 per board foot for FAS grade (pricing varies by width and figure).
Wood Age Estimate
50-80 years old, based on the style of the relief carving, depth of oxidation in the pores, and the specific wear patterns in the finish.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered stable and sustainable though susceptible to Thousand Cankers Disease.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; holds details well for carving, glues and finishes exceptionally well, though can produce a mild scent when cut.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint, spicy scent when worked. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and superior shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Traditional linseed or tung oil to enhance depth, or a shellac base with wax for a period-accurate luster on carvings.
Identification Confidence
High; the pore structure, color transition in the carved recesses, and lack of prominent rays (unlike Oak) strongly indicate Black Walnut.