Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, but can be irregular or wavy; medium texture with semi-ring-porous structure showing distinct growth ring patterns and moderate luster.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a golden brown to deep chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is creamy white. Over time, it tends to develop a honey-like patina and lighten slightly with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $18.00 per board foot depending on width and figure
Wood Age Estimate
The visible patina and deep oxidation under the finish suggest the wood has been aged/finished for at least 20-40 years.
Sustainability Status
Stable population; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well. Can occasionally have surfacing tearout if grain is irregular.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) enhance the natural depth; clear lacquers or polyurethane are common for durability. Shellac works well as a sealer.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate hues, characteristic pore distribution visible in the grain, and the specific way English/American walnut takes a high-gloss finish are diagnostic.