Weight – 1.68 lb’s – 767.0 gm’s
Dimensions – 4.285″ x 3.257″ across/deep (10.885 x 8.273 cm’s)
Country of Origin – Waianakarua, Southland, New Zealand
USD $47.00
SKU: P5676
This specimen is beautiful Petrified Wood, from the South Island of New Zealand. It features an array of pleasing patterns and a beautiful shiny finish on the Polished flat face while the rest has been left natural! It stands on its own.
In stock
Weight – 1.68 lb’s – 767.0 gm’s
Dimensions – 4.285″ x 3.257″ across/deep (10.885 x 8.273 cm’s)
Country of Origin – Waianakarua, Southland, New Zealand
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Petrified Wood is one of nature’s most profound records of transformation. Formed when ancient trees were buried by sediment and gradually replaced cell-by-cell with silica-rich solutions, the organic structure of the wood is preserved in mineral form over millions of years.
New Zealand is home to some particularly beautiful examples of Petrified Wood. These specimens often exhibit soft earthy tones and strong grounding presence, reflecting the unique volcanic and sedimentary environments in which they formed. Much of the Petrified Wood found in New Zealand dates back to prehistoric forest systems that existed long before modern landforms emerged.
While Petrified Wood most commonly occurs in massive form, rare specimens show partial crystalline quartz development within the fossilized structure, adding further geological interest.
Metaphysically, Petrified Wood is widely regarded as a stone of patience, deep grounding, and long-term transformation.
Petrified Wood belongs to the Oxide mineral family and is primarily composed of microcrystalline quartz (silicon dioxide). During fossilization, silica-rich groundwater permeates the buried wood, gradually replacing the organic material while retaining the original cellular structure.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Oxide |
| Primary Composition | Silica (Quartz, SiO₂) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal (Quartz) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 – 7 |
| Common Colors | Grey, brown, red, tan, multicolored |
| Form | Massive; rarely partially crystalline |
| Notable Localities | New Zealand, USA, Madagascar, Indonesia |
Color variations arise from trace minerals such as iron oxides, manganese, and carbon present during the silicification process.
Handling:
Petrified Wood is durable but should be handled with respect, especially specimens with natural fractures or partially crystalline sections.
Cleaning:
May be safely cleaned with water and a soft cloth. Avoid chemical cleaners.
Storage:
Store on stable surfaces. Heavier specimens should be supported evenly to prevent stress fractures.