Walnut is a smooth grained wood with mostly wavy or curly grain patterns and course texture, with an occasional mineral streak and pin knots. Its color has a rich, warm appeal, and ranges from a deep chocolate brown to dark purple-brown to a light reddish-brown. While care is taken to eliminate sapwood, sapwood will be seen in some staves of Walnut wood. Walnut possesses above average density and hardness, as well as above average stiffness, toughness, and strength. Lengths of walnut wood are usually shorter than average, which results in longer lengths being difficult to obtain. Walnut is considered a durable wood, and has become a desired wood specie for use in cabinetry and furniture.