Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or another walnut species. — Juglans nigra (most likely)

Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or another walnut species.

Juglans nigra (most likely) · Hardwood; temperate North American species.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; temperate North American species.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Hardness
About 1,010 lbf Janka — Medium hardness.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood offers useful decay and insect resistance but is not intended as an especially weather-resistant exterior wood.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, fine-to-medium grain with mild cathedral and subtle wavy figure; appears flat-sawn. No obvious burl, curl, or quarter-sawn ray figure.

Color & Appearance

Light-to-medium chocolate-brown heartwood with gray-purple cast and darker streaking; sapwood is comparatively pale but not prominent. Walnut typically darkens slightly and develops warmer luster with age and finish.

Hardness (Janka)

About 1,010 lbf Janka — Medium hardness.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood offers useful decay and insect resistance but is not intended as an especially weather-resistant exterior wood.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for clear retail lumber; figured or exceptional stock may cost 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
Not reliably determinable from this clean, unfinished sample; it appears recently milled or lightly aged rather than antique.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, architectural panels, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, turned objects, and interior trim.

Geographic Origin

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

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; sharp tools are recommended to minimize tearout around irregular grain.

Finish Recommendations

Apply sanding sealer followed by oil, lacquer, shellac, or clear polyurethane; an oil finish emphasizes depth and chatoyance. Test first because end grain and pale areas may absorb unevenly.

Notable Features

Moderate weight, good dimensional stability, attractive natural color, and a characteristic mild walnut odor when freshly worked.

Learn more about Likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or another walnut species. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 16, 2026