Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium texture; displays semi-ring-porous growth rings and small figure patterns around a knot and seasoned check
Color Description
Heartwood is typically dark chocolate brown with graying or lightening due to long-term oxidation and surface dust. Sapwood is yellowish-white (mostly hidden by age patina). Luster is naturally dull in this rough state but typically silky when finished.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack (evidenced by small bore holes in the sample)
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, gunstocks, interior trim, veneer, and turning chores
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $15.00 per board foot (depending on width and thickness)
Wood Age Estimate
40-70 years based on heavy oxidation, dust accumulation, and evidence of old iron staining around the metal fastener
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable in its native range
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can suffer from tearout if the grain is figured
Notable Features
Distinctive mild, spicy scent when worked; contains juglone which can be a mild irritant; known for its excellent dimensional stability
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) to enhance the deep brown tones, or polyurethane for high-wear surfaces. Penetrating oils bring out the chatoyance best.
Identification Confidence
High; the deep chocolate brown color, semi-ring-porous structure, and classic oxidation characteristic of walnut are clearly visible despite the rough surface.