sedimentary
Petrified Wood
Silicified wood (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on Mohs scale, waxy to vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure with preserved cellular wood patterns, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.65.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on Mohs scale, waxy to vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure with preserved cellular wood patterns, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity around 2.65.
Formation & geological history
Formed when buried vegetation is slowly replaced by silica-rich groundwater over millions of years, typically dating from the Triassic period onward.
Uses & applications
Used in ornamental carvings, high-end jewelry, decorative tabletops, and as prized collector specimens.
Geological facts
Famous occurrences include the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, where entire ancient conifer forests have turned to solid quartz.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by retaining distinct tree ring and bark textures while feeling exceptionally heavy and scratching glass due to quartz hardness.
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