Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with occasional wavy figure and minor cathedral pattern visible near the knots. The texture is medium and open-pored.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a creamy light brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. The sample shows typical oxidation, becoming lighter and more golden-yellow over time if exposed to UV.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The board appears to be roughly 10-30 years old based on the surface oxidation, staining, and the presence of older tool marks and surface accumulation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes very well, though it has a distinct odor when being worked.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, mild spicy scent when cut. Contains juglone, which can be an irritant to some. Recognized for its excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (tung or linseed) or clear lacquer to highlight the natural dark tones and chatoyance.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of chocolate-brown color, characteristic open grain, and knot structure is diagnostic of Juglans nigra.