Most likely walnut, possibly black walnut; alternatives include dark-stained oak or mahogany. — Juglans nigra (probable); alternatives Quercus spp. or Swietenia spp.

Most likely walnut, possibly black walnut; alternatives include dark-stained oak or mahogany.

Juglans nigra (probable); alternatives Quercus spp. or Swietenia spp. · Hardwood; potentially stained or aged.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; potentially stained or aged.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Hardness
Approximately 1,010 lbf Janka—Medium; black walnut is moderately hard and stable.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has reasonable decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant to insects and rot.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine-to-medium texture with subtle wavy or interlocked areas; the image shows face grain only, not enough for cut orientation or special figure.

Color & Appearance

Brown to chocolate-brown with olive-gold variation and pronounced dark streaking; likely oxidation or finish-related darkening. Walnut commonly lightens somewhat toward warm brown with age.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 1,010 lbf Janka—Medium; black walnut is moderately hard and stable.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has reasonable decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant to insects and rot.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried black walnut; figured or premium stock can cost substantially more.

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

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably estimated from this photograph; the dark appearance may reflect finish or oxidation rather than age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, gunstocks, architectural millwork, veneer, turning, and instrument components.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; interlocked grain may cause localized tear-out, and predrilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Test first, then use clear lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane; Danish or tung oil accentuates the grain. Seal end grain and use a wash coat if blotching occurs.

Notable Features

Attractive dark color, fine texture, moderate dimensional stability, and occasional curl or mineral streaking; mild characteristic walnut odor when freshly worked.

Learn more about Most likely walnut, possibly black walnut; alternatives include dark-stained oak or mahogany. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 17, 2026