Black Walnut (Stained/Finished)
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to semi-irregular grain with subtle cathedral patterns visible under the finish; closed to semi-open pore structure.
Color Description
Heartwood is naturally a greyish-brown but this sample shows a deep reddish-brown mahogany stain with high luster and semi-gloss topcoat. It will likely lighten toward a golden-brown over many years of UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Durable and very resistant to heartwood decay; moderate resistance to insects.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior paneling, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
5 to 15 years based on the modern film finish (polyurethane or lacquer) and lack of deep surface oxidized patina under the stain.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC certified; generally sustainable due to robust growth in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though it can occasionally produce grain tearout in figured areas.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone (mild toxin for plants); noted for its exceptional dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
A film-building finish such as polyurethane or lacquer is already present. For maintenance, a high-quality furniture wax or buffing with a microfiber cloth is recommended.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The tight grain and pore structure suggest a North American hardwood like Walnut or Cherry, heavily colored with a reddish mahogany stain common in office furniture.