Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro walnut or dark-stained domestic hardwood.
Juglans nigra (likely) · Hardwood; temperate North American species
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate North American species
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
- Hardness
- About 1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood offers fair resistance to decay and insects, but is not highly weather-resistant outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to mildly wavy, with occasional irregular cathedral-like figure; appears flat-sawn or mixed-sawn. End grain is not visible, limiting certainty.
Color & Appearance
Medium chocolate-brown heartwood with darker streaking and relatively subdued sapwood; natural luster is moderate. Walnut commonly lightens or develops warmer amber tones with age and light.
Hardness (Janka)
About 1,010 lbf Janka — Medium.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood offers fair resistance to decay and insects, but is not highly weather-resistant outdoors.
Value & Age
Approximately $8–$20 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried walnut; premium clear or figured stock may exceed $25.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be reliably determined from the photograph; surface patina suggests seasoned wood, not necessarily antique material.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, paneling, gunstocks, veneers, turning, and interior trim.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Midwest and Appalachian regions.
Workability
Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; knots, reversing grain, or embedded grit may cause localized tearout or dulling.
Finish Recommendations
Ease sharp edges, sand uniformly, and apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane. A clear finish preserves the brown color; test for blotching on end grain.
Notable Features
Characteristic dark color, attractive grain contrast, moderate weight, and good dimensional stability; no clear end-grain or scent evidence is visible.