Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with wavy and irregular cathedral figures visible in this flat-sawn sample; medium texture with open pores.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish brown to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is yellowish-white. This sample shows a cool, grayish patina likely due to oxidation or unfinished weathering. It typically darkens over time with light exposure if finished.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and figured grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The silvery-grey patina and oxidation suggests the sample has been air-drying or exposed to the elements for at least 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can occasionally have surfacing tearout where grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant. Highly prized for its dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or wiping varnishes are best to highlight the natural depth. If the grey patina is undesired, light sanding will reveal the rich chocolate brown underneath.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct cathedral grain transitions, semi-porous structure, and classic oxidation color of unfinished walnut are characteristic of Juglans nigra.