Black Walnut and Hard Maple
Juglans nigra and Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight to slightly wavy face grain. The image displays a butcher-block or edge-grain construction with 'cathedral' patterns visible in the walnut and fine, uniform grain in the maple.
Color Description
Contrasting strips of dark chocolate brown heartwood (Walnut) and creamy off-white sapwood (Maple). Walnut heartwood may lighten with age, while Maple sapwood typically yellows over time.
Hardness Rating
Walnut: 1,010 lbf (Medium); Maple: 1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Walnut is rated as Very Durable regarding decay resistance; Maple is Non-durable and susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Cutting boards, butcher blocks, countertops, fine furniture, and cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on region and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern. The clean glued joints and surface finish indicate a recently manufactured laminated board.
Sustainability Status
Both species are widely available and not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List; FSC certified options are common.
Workability
Excellent. Both woods machine well, though Walnut is softer and easier on blades. Sap maple can occasionally burn if saw blades are dull.
Notable Features
Walnut has a distinct, mild scent when worked. Maple is prized for its high density and closed-pore structure which is ideal for food-safe surfaces.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil and beeswax mixture is recommended for this type of laminated cutting surface.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive high-contrast lamination of dark walnut and light maple is a standard industry practice for culinary boards.