Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with visible cathedrals and irregular dark growth rings. The sample shows significant saw marks (kerf) perpendicular to the grain, giving it a rough-sawn appearance.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown with darker chocolate-colored streaks. Sapwood is naturally pale yellowish-gray. It will likely darken and warm into a richer chocolate brown with finishing, though it tends to lighten slightly over decades of UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, gunstocks, flooring, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/recently milled. The sharp, mechanical saw marks and lack of significant oxidation suggest it is a fresh board ready for processing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well. Its main challenge is occasional tearout when planing pieces with irregular grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked. Contains juglone, which can cause reactions in some individuals. Moderate weight and excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (like Tung or Linseed) or wiping varnishes are highly recommended to bring out the depth of the dark grain. Clear polyurethane is best for high-wear surfaces like flooring.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown color variations and pore structure are hallmark traits of Juglans nigra, despite the obscuring surface saw marks.