Black Walnut
Juglans nigra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1010 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture, flat-sawn appearance showing subtle cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Rich dark brown to purplish-brown heartwood with lighter pale yellowish-grey sapwood, exhibiting a moderate natural luster that tends to lighten slightly to a warm golden-brown patina with prolonged light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1010 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 30 to 60 years old based on the stable patina, depth of color, and traditional furniture construction style.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern status, widely available from sustainably managed domestic forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, architectural millwork, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally tear out on figured sections during planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil, varnish, lacquer, and shellac wonderfully; often enhanced with a penetrating oil finish to highlight the natural depth of the grain.
Notable Features
Prized for its rich color, dimensional stability, shock resistance, and moderate weight.
