Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with some slight waviness; exhibits a classic cathedral figure in the center panel indicating a flat-sawn cut.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from medium to dark chocolate brown. This sample has a warm, reddish-brown stain applied. Naturally, it tends to lighten over time with UV exposure, becoming more amber-toned.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to heartwood decay, though susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, interior paneling, gunstocks, veneer, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$12.00–$20.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
20–40 years based on the door style, oxidation of the finish in the recessed corners, and subtle wear on the raised edges.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification available.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes very well. It is known for holding sharp edges and having good dimensional stability.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, faint spicy scent when being worked; known for its high shock resistance and characteristic dark heartwood pits.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based polyurethane or lacquer to enhance the natural depth of the grain. This sample appears to be finished with a tinted semi-gloss lacquer.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of diffused-porous grain structure, prominent cathedral figuring on the panel, and the specific way the wood fiber absorbs the dark stain is characteristic of American Black Walnut.