Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with a pronounced curly or fiddleback figure across the face grain
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood, exhibiting good natural luster and darkening slightly over time with UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8 to 15 USD per board foot for standard grade, significantly higher for figured grades like curly walnut
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned lumber, roughly 5 to 20 years old based on surface oxidation and finish
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available domestically in North America
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools, though figured sections can cause tearout if not planed carefully; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, Danish oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac extremely well, enhancing the depth and chatoyance of the curly figure
Notable Features
Prized for its rich chocolate-brown color and chatoyant figured grain patterns, possessing good dimensional stability and moderate shock resistance
