Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with occasional wavy or curly figure; features visible growth rings and cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light brown to a dark chocolate brown with darker streaks. Sapwood is pale yellow-gray to nearly white. Often develops a rich patina and slightly lightens in color over decades with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack (especially sapwood).
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior paneling, veneer, turned objects, and specialty small wood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be freshly cut or rough-sawn lumber, likely less than 5 years old based on the lack of oxidation/patina and sharp, unweathered edges.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in its native range.
Workability
Easily worked with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally exhibit tearout in figured pieces.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when being worked. Known for excellent dimensional stability and shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Responds beautifully to oils (boiled linseed or tung oil) to enhance depth, or polyurethane for durability. Gel stains are rarely needed as the natural color is highly prized.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic chocolate-brown hue, grain structure, and visible growth ring transitions are indicative of North American Black Walnut.