Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. Shows a somewhat coarse texture with visible open pores and occasional cathedral figure on flat-sawn surfaces.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray. The sample shows significant oxidation and darkening due to age and finish.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and small specialty wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
12.00 to 20.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
40-60 years based on the deep oxidation of the wood fibers, wear on the facet edges, and the style of the furniture joinery.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues and finishes well, although the open pores may require filling for a high-gloss finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive faint, mild odor when being worked. Contains juglone which can be an irritant to some. Known for its excellent dimensional stability and strength-to-weight ratio.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping oils (like Tung or Linseed) or polyurethane to protect the patina. Shellac is also appropriate for antique restoration.
Identification Confidence
High. The dark chocolate color, characteristic pore structure visible in the grain, and its common use in mid-century and traditional American furniture like this stool strongly indicate Black Walnut.