Petrified Wood

Petrified wood is a fossil formed when the organic remains of trees are replaced by minerals, primarily silica (quartz), while retaining the original structure of the wood. The petrification process occurs underground when wood is buried in sediment and protected from decay by an anaerobic environment. Mineral-rich water seeps through the sediment, depositing minerals in the wood's cells. Over time, the organic material decays, and the minerals crystallize, creating a stone replica of the original wood. The resulting petrified wood exhibits the detailed structure of the original wood, including growth rings, knots, and even the cellular structure, often with vibrant colors due to the presence of various minerals.