Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or stained Oak. — Juglans nigra (likely)

Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or stained Oak.

Juglans nigra (likely) · Hardwood; temperate North American species.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; temperate North American species.
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Hardness
Janka approximately 1,010 lbf — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood offers reasonable decay resistance but is not intended as an especially weather-resistant wood.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to mildly wavy, with prominent tangential cathedral-like arcs and dark streaking; appears flat-sawn. No clear special figure is visible.

Color & Appearance

Medium brown to chocolate brown heartwood with darker bands; sapwood is likely absent or narrow. Walnut commonly lightens or develops a warmer golden-brown tone with age and finish.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka approximately 1,010 lbf — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood offers reasonable decay resistance but is not intended as an especially weather-resistant wood.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried common walnut; figured or premium stock may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be reliably estimated from this image; the piece appears relatively clean and unfinished, with little evidence of long-term patina.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, doors, architectural millwork, flooring, veneer, gunstocks, and turning.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; interlocked or reversing grain can cause localized tear-out. Pre-drilling is advisable for screws near edges.

Finish Recommendations

Use a clear oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane to enrich the brown color; sand evenly and apply a test coat because end grain and dark streaks can absorb finish differently.

Notable Features

Warm brown color, attractive cathedral grain, moderate weight, and good dimensional stability; walnut has a characteristic but usually mild wood odor when worked.

Learn more about Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or stained Oak. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 19, 2026