Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable. Very good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture and occasional decorative flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible in the tabletop surface.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to chocolate heartwood with occasional lighter streaks, and a pale yellowish-gray sapwood that is typically trimmed out or stained to match.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable. Very good decay resistance and moderate resistance to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00+ per board foot depending on grade, width, and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 50 to 100+ years old based on the deep rich patina and oxidation visible in the antique finished surface.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally considered sustainable, widely distributed in North America with stable populations and not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally tear out on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, lacquer, and polyurethane wonderfully. Often enhanced with a penetrating oil or wiping varnish to highlight the deep grain chatoyance.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich color, shock resistance, dimensional stability, and moderate weight.
