Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be irregular; featured here with a faint cathedral and subtle wavy figure. The smaller horizontal strip shows a tighter, somewhat interlocked grain texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light pale brown to dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. It has a dull matte luster that turns more golden-brown with age. Sapwood is typically creamy white. Purple or greyish hues are often visible in freshly milled or steamed pieces.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 – $18.00 per board foot depending on width, figure, and local availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut; the surface shows contemporary sanding marks and lacks the deep oxidation or physical wear associated with antique reclaimed lumber.
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. It planes, glues, and stains very well, though it can occasionally experience tearout with figured grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains moderate tannins. Known for its unique dark pigment which is rarely found in other temperate hardwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for penetrating oils (Danish or Tung oil) to highlight the grain, or clear polyurethane/lacquer for protection. Avoid heavy stains that mask the natural color.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown heartwood color, semi-ring-porous grain structure, and the contrast between the darker heartwood and pale sapwood/streaks are diagnostic of Juglans nigra.