Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular. The sample shows a mix of straight and curved grain with some cathedral-like figures and moderate texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with even darker brown streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Wood tends to lighten over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, flooring, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and parts of Southern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $12.00 to $18.00 per board foot for select grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on surface color and lack of deep oxidation/patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes well, glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for its rich color and excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural depth and color. Polyurethane or lacquer for higher durability applications.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown hues, grain architecture, and transitions between heartwood and sapwood are consistent with Black Walnut.