sedimentary
Petrified Wood
Silicified Wood (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, waxy to vitreous luster, displays preserved cellular wood grain structures in colors like red, brown, and grey, with conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, waxy to vitreous luster, displays preserved cellular wood grain structures in colors like red, brown, and grey, with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed via permineralization when buried organic wood is slowly replaced by silica-rich groundwater over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used for ornamental carvings, polished display specimens, jewelry, and popular among fossil and mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Famous deposits include Arizona's Petrified Forest, where entire prehistoric forests transformed into solid quartz over 200 million years ago.
Field identification & locations
Identify by visible growth rings combined with quartz hardness and weight; commonly found in ancient sedimentary floodplains and volcanic ash beds.
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