sedimentary
Petrified Wood
Silicified Wood (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 6.5 to 7; displays wood grain patterns in brown, black, or grey; vitreous to waxy luster; amorphous crystal structure (quartz pseudomorph).
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7; displays wood grain patterns in brown, black, or grey; vitreous to waxy luster; amorphous crystal structure (quartz pseudomorph).
Formation & geological history
Formed through permineralization when buried organic wood is slowly replaced by silica-rich groundwater over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used for ornamental carvings, polished display slabs, unique jewelry, and educational collections.
Geological facts
Complete cellular structure of the original tree is often preserved down to microscopic details.
Field identification & locations
Identify by retaining tree ring patterns combined with conchoidal fracture and high hardness typical of quartz; found worldwide in sedimentary rock layers.
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