fossil

Weathered fossilized wood (likely petrified wood)

Silicified wood; commonly quartz/chalcedony replacing wood tissue (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown-gray, elongated piece with apparent parallel wood grain and a dull to slightly earthy luster; hardness typically 6.5–7 Mohs if fully silicified, with no obvious cleavage. Density is commonly about 2.2–2.7 g/cm³.

Identified August 15, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Mineral-rich groundwater gradually replaces buried wood with silica, preserving cellular structure; specimens range from Paleozoic to Cenozoic in age. The photograph is too dark for precise identification and could also show ordinary weathered wood.

Uses & applications

Collected as a fossil and used for polished slabs, cabochons, bookends, and decorative objects; silicified material can take a good polish.

Geological facts

The best specimens preserve growth rings, rays, and cellular detail while replacing organic matter molecule by molecule. Common replacement minerals include quartz, chalcedony, opal, and rarely calcite or pyrite.

Field identification & locations

Look for visible growth rings or cellular texture, stone-like weight, lack of splintering, and a glassy fracture; a steel file should not easily scratch silicified material. Common localities include Arizona, Utah, Madagascar, Indonesia, and Argentina.