Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be irregular; features a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and a small tight knot. Notable presence of powderpost beetle exit holes and some minor spalting or mineral staining.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a lighter pale brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. This sample shows a high contrast between heartwood and sapwood with some grayish oxidation.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable; very resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack (as evidenced by the visible bore holes).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned items, and specialty wood objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for select grade; however, this specific character-grade/distressed piece would value lower at $5.00 - $8.00.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be 'air-dried' or reclaimed stock, likely several decades old based on the significant oxidation of the sapwood and the presence of old insect damage.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable within its native range.
Workability
Typically easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes smoothly, glues well, and holds nails/screws excellently. The presence of knots and holes in this specific piece may cause some tearout.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, bittersweet odor when worked. Contains juglone, which can be an allergen for some. Known for excellent dimensional stability once seasoned.
Finish Recommendations
Tung oil or Danish oil to highlight the natural grain and 'wet' look of the walnut. Polyurethane is recommended if used for surfaces requiring high durability (e.g., tabletops).
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of chocolate-brown heartwood, distinct creamy sapwood transition, pore structure, and the specific type of insect damage is characteristic of North American Black Walnut.