Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or dark-stained mahogany. — Juglans nigra

Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or dark-stained mahogany.

Juglans nigra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.
Hardness
Janka about 1,010 lbf — Medium.
Durability
Moderately durable; heartwood has fair decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, with subtle wavy/interlocked areas and occasional cathedral-like figure; appears flat-sawn or plain-sawn.

Color & Appearance

Chocolate-brown to purplish-brown heartwood with lighter brown streaking and comparatively pale sapwood; walnut commonly lightens or develops warmer golden tones with age and light.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka about 1,010 lbf — Medium.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately durable; heartwood has fair decay resistance, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $8–$18 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried lumber; premium figured or wide boards 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
Not reliably determinable from a finished face; the surface shows no clear evidence of substantial antique patina or weathering.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, architectural panels, flooring, gunstocks, turned objects, veneer, and musical instruments.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the United States and southern Canada.

Workability

Generally machines, planes, sands, glues, and finishes well; interlocked grain can cause localized tear-out, and predrilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Apply a sanding sealer followed by oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; clear finishes preserve contrast, while avoiding excessive dark stain unless color uniformity is desired.

Notable Features

Stable, relatively lightweight for its strength, attractive dark color, and good dimensional stability; the image suggests mild natural color variation rather than strong figure.

Learn more about Most likely Black Walnut; alternatives include Claro Walnut or dark-stained mahogany. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 2, 2026