Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Mostly straight but with small character marks; flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral peaks toward the bottom; medium texture with open pores and some slight mineral streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood is a creamy light chocolate brown with reddish-purple undertones; sapwood is clearly defined, pale yellowish-white/cream. The wood will lighten and become more golden-brown with long-term UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance; heartwood is highly resistant to rot, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, and specialty wooden items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade (higher for FAS grade).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 1-3 years based on the sharpness of the edges, lack of heavy oxidation, and clean surface.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification often available.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Occasional tearout can occur near knots or figured areas.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked; contains juglone which can be an allergen; high luster and exceptional dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (like Tung or Linseed) or Danish oil to enhance depth; clear lacquer or polyurethane for protection. No wood conditioner is typically needed.
Identification Confidence
High; the stark contrast between the chocolate heartwood and the creamy sapwood, combined with the specific pore structure and grain flow, is classic of Juglans nigra.