Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include hickory or ash. — Juglans nigra

Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include hickory or ash.

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Mississippi and Ohio River regions.
Hardness
1,010 lbf Janka — Medium hardness.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood offers some decay and insect resistance but is not ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure.

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Grain Pattern

Flat-sawn cross-section with mostly straight, moderately coarse grain; dark irregular streaking may indicate mineral staining or localized decay, not clear figure.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood appears medium brown with gray-brown streaks; sapwood is pale cream. Walnut commonly darkens and develops warmer brown tones with age, though this sample is weathered and dirty.

Hardness (Janka)

1,010 lbf Janka — Medium hardness.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood offers some decay and insect resistance but is not ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $6–$12 per board foot for sound, dry walnut; this stained or damaged piece would be worth substantially less.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Tree age cannot be reliably estimated from the photograph; the cut surface appears recent, with weathered surrounding bark and wood.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, gunstocks, veneer, turning, carving, and interior trim.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Mississippi and Ohio River regions.

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; localized grain irregularity may cause tear-out, and embedded grit can dull tools.

Finish Recommendations

Clean and sand carefully, then use oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; a clear finish will emphasize the brown color and streaking.

Notable Features

Distinctive dark mineral streaking, moderate weight, good dimensional stability, and attractive brown coloration when clean and finished.

Learn more about Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include hickory or ash. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 4, 2026