Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture and visible growth ring boundaries characteristic of a cross-cut end grain or slab surface.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with a distinct pale yellowish-grey sapwood, exhibiting natural aging and oxidation over time.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated several decades based on the growth ring density and oxidation patterns visible on the cut end surface.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, evaluated as Least Concern by the IUCN, widely available domestically in North America.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, specialty veneer, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though grain can occasionally tear out during planing due to irregular patterns.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes exceptionally well; hand-rubbed oil finishes particularly enhance the deep chatoyance.
Notable Features
Features excellent dimensional stability, shock resistance, and a rich natural luster with moderate natural oils.
