Most likely black walnut; alternatives include English walnut or another dark-barked hardwood. — Juglans nigra (probable)

Most likely black walnut; alternatives include English walnut or another dark-barked hardwood.

Juglans nigra (probable) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.
Durability
Moderately durable: heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is substantially less resistant; not a weathering guarantee.

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Grain Pattern

Flat-sawn slab with mostly straight to gently irregular grain, subtle cathedral pattern, and visible growth-ring bands; live edge retained. No clear decorative figure.

Color & Appearance

Muted gray-brown to medium brown heartwood with darker streaking and a narrow, paler sapwood edge; fresh walnut typically darkens and warms with oxidation, though this surface appears weathered or dusty.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable: heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, while sapwood is substantially less resistant; not a weathering guarantee.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately US$8–20 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; figured, wide, thick slabs may exceed US$25–50.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Tree age cannot be determined reliably from the photograph; the slab appears recently sawn, with a relatively fresh cut face and natural bark edge.

Common Uses

Furniture, slabs, cabinetry, flooring, gunstocks, architectural millwork, turning, and veneer.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.

Workability

Generally machines and sands well, though reversing grain can cause localized tear-out; predrilling is advisable, and gluing is usually straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Apply a sanding sealer followed by oil, wiping varnish, lacquer, or polyurethane; a clear finish enhances contrast, while a light wash coat can reduce uneven absorption.

Notable Features

Characteristic walnut color, open but generally fine texture, moderate luster, and a distinctive mild woody odor when freshly worked.

Learn more about Most likely black walnut; alternatives include English walnut or another dark-barked hardwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 7, 2026