Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with hints of cathedral figure in the flatsawn areas; medium texture with open pores visible. Some areas show slight waviness characteristic of the species.
Color Description
Rich dark chocolate brown heartwood with golden-brown undertones. The sample shows a warm patina from age; sapwood (not extensively visible) would typically be creamy white. It tends to lighten slightly and develop a golden/amber hue over many years of light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack. Excellent dimensional stability.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, flooring, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible oxidation, surface scratches, and mellowed color suggest this is part of a finished piece of furniture or paneling likely 20 to 40 years old.
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. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes extremely well. Can sometimes experience tearout if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Known for excellent shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio. Dust can be a mild sensitizer for some users.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) or clear lacquers/polyurethanes to highlight the natural depth and chatoyancy of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the specific combination of deep brown coloring, open pore structure, and characteristic grain swirl is diagnostic of North American Black Walnut.