fossil

Palm Wood Fossil

Palmoxylon

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Tan to dark brown with distinct rod-like textures, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Structure: Cryptocrystalline quartz replacing organic cellular structure.

Hardness: 6

Identified July 5, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Tan to dark brown with distinct rod-like textures, Luster: Vitreous to waxy, Structure: Cryptocrystalline quartz replacing organic cellular structure.

Formation & geological history

Formed through permineralization where silica rich water replaces the xylem and phloem cells of ancient palm trees during the Cretaceous to Eocene periods (approx. 30-100 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Primarily used for lapidary work including cabochons for jewelry, spheres, and decorative bookends. It is also a popular specimen for fossil collectors.

Geological facts

Palmoxylon is the state fossil of Louisiana and the state stone of Texas. Unlike true wood, palms do not have growth rings, but instead show a distinct pattern of small 'spots' or 'tubes' which are fossilized vascular bundles.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for a characteristic 'pitted' or 'spotted' cross-section and a fibrous longitudinal pattern. Often found in river gravels and sedimentary deposits in the Gulf Coast region of the USA.