fossil

Fossilized wood (petrified wood)

Silicified wood; commonly quartz or chalcedony replacing wood tissue

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The tan-brown piece preserves a strongly ridged, wood-like texture. Silica-rich petrified wood is typically Mohs 6.5–7, with a vitreous to dull luster; exact color and internal structure are not reliably visible here.

Identified September 27, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when buried wood is mineralized as silica-rich groundwater replaces or fills its tissues. Fossilization can occur across many geological ages and settings; the specimen’s age and locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Collected as a fossil and used for display, lapidary work, and occasionally jewelry or decorative objects.

Geological facts

Petrified wood is fossil wood, not simply wood coated with minerals; fine specimens may preserve cellular structure.

Field identification & locations

Wood-like grain and ridges support the identification, but confirmatory details such as growth rings or cell structure are not clear in the photo. Petrified wood occurs worldwide in ancient sedimentary deposits; avoid destructive testing on a potentially valuable specimen.