sedimentary
Fossilized Wood (with Coal and Limonite)
Petrified Wood (Silicified or Carbonized Flora)
Hardness: 2.5 (carbonized) to 7 (silicified); Color: Dark brown to black with yellow-orange patches; Luster: Sub-metallic to earthy; Structure: Fibrous or blocky plant cell structure preserved; Cleavage: None/Brittle fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Dark brown to black with yellow-orange patches
- Luster
- Sub-metallic to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5 (carbonized) to 7 (silicified); Color: Dark brown to black with yellow-orange patches; Luster: Sub-metallic to earthy; Structure: Fibrous or blocky plant cell structure preserved; Cleavage: None/Brittle fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed through the process of permineralization or carbonization, where plant material is buried in sediment. Over millions of years (often Carboniferous to Triassic), minerals like silica or iron oxides replace plant cells, or the organic matter is compressed into low-grade coal (lignite).
Uses & applications
Used primarily as decorative collector specimens, educational items, or occasionally in lapidary work for jewelry if highly silicified.
Geological facts
This specimen shows evidence of carbonization (dark black areas) and secondary mineralization by iron oxides (yellow/orange limonite/goethite stains). It represents an ancient tree limb or bark fragment from pre-historic forests.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for visible wood grain, knots, or rhythmic growth rings. It is often heavier than regular wood and cold to the touch. Found frequently in riverbeds or eroded sedimentary basins like those in Arizona, Wyoming, or Germany.
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