Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Featuring classic curly figure (fiddleback) with a wavy grain crossing horizontal to the growth direction; typically straight or irregular grain with medium texture.
Color Description
Heartwood is medium to dark chocolate brown with visible aging/patina; sapwood is typically creamy white but not visible here. It becomes lighter and more golden-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable. Very resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (stocks and guitar backs), veneer, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $20.00 per board foot for figured/curly stock.
Wood Age Estimate
30-60 years based on the deep oxidation of the finish and surface patina wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent with hand and machine tools. Responds well to steaming. Can have tearout in figured areas if blades are not extremely sharp.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (Tung or Linseed) to pop the curly figure, followed by polyurethane or lacquer for protection.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The color and fiddleback figure are highly characteristic of Walnut, though some stained Maples or Birch can mimic this appearance.