Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be irregular; small knots and bird's eye-like piths present in this sample suggest a branch or trunk transition area. Fine to medium texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light grey-brown to dark chocolate brown. Sapwood is yellowish-white to cream. The sample shows a distinct sapwood line and lightens significantly with UV exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; heartwood is highly resistant to decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, flooring, and turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot depending on width and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh cut (1-3 years); showing minimal oxidation or deep patina, with clear rough-sawn mill marks and visible sapwood contrast.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and glues well; finishes to a high natural luster. Can produce a mild allergic reaction from dust.
Notable Features
Distinctive chocolate-like scent when freshly cut. Presence of juglone can be an irritant. High shock resistance and dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils (tung or linseed) or polyurethane to enhance depth. Clear coat is preferred to showcase natural grain contrast; avoid heavy stains.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic contrast between the creamy sapwood and the grayish-brown heartwood, combined with the open-pore texture and knot structure, is diagnostic of Juglans nigra.