Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight but irregular in the carved areas, featuring cathedral patterns and small pin knots. The texture is medium and the grain is somewhat open and porous.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a deep chocolate brown. The sapwood is a distinct creamy white to pale yellow. It develops a lustrous patina over time and can lighten slightly with heavy UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High resistance to heartwood decay and moderate resistance to insect attack, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetles.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and specialty wood objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot, depending on width and figured quality.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from relatively young timber or a branch based on the narrow diameter and high proportion of sapwood. Patina suggests it has been air-dried or seasoned for 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and takes stains and finishes exceptionally. It is known for its stability and minimal shrinkage.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild spicy scent when being worked. Known for its rich chocolatey tones and unique contrast between heartwood and sapwood. Dust can be a mild irritant to some.
Finish Recommendations
Best finished with penetrating oils (like Tung or Linseed) or wiping varnish to enhance depth and chatoyance. Wax can be used for a natural, tactile feel on carved surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the color contrast between the white sapwood and the mocha-toned heartwood, combined with the visible pore structure and growth ring orientation, is characteristic of Juglans nigra.