Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with visible cathedral figuring; medium texture with a natural luster.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker brown streaks. Grayish-yellow sapwood. Tends to lighten over time with UV exposure to a golden brown.
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, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (4/4 Select & Better)
Wood Age Estimate
30-50 years based on the deep oxidation of the finish and typical mid-century architectural integration.
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 and glues well. Can occasionally have irregular grain that causes tearout.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild odor when being worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance. Contains Juglone, which can be an irritant.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) or clear polyurethanes are best to highlight the natural depth and chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
Medium; the color profile and cathedral grain are classic for Walnut, but the orange-tinted lighting/finish makes it share visual similarities with stained Cherry or Mahogany.