Petrified Palm Wood
Silicified Palmwood (Palmoxylon) · Fossilized Wood / Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal (Cryptocrystalline / Microcrystalline / Amorphous replacement)
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate group - Chalcedony/Quartz family)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with iron and manganese impurities)
Formation Process
Permineralization: Organic material is replaced by silica-rich hydrothermal fluids in sedimentary environments over millions of years.
About This Crystal
An opaque, earthy specimen showing a characteristic 'pitted' or spotted texture representing fossilized vascular bundles. Colors range from tan and brown to black, with a waxy to dull luster and a slab-like broken habit.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Brown, tan, and black; Streak: White; Fracture: Splintery to conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9; Non-fluorescent under UV.
Optical Properties
Opaque to slightly translucent on thin edges; Refractive Index: ~1.54; No pleochroism or dispersion; Singly or aggregate refractive.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notably Texas (State Stone), Louisiana, and Indonesia; found in Cenozoic sedimentary layers.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 6.5 to 7; Good toughness and excellent durability for jewelry, though check for surface pits.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water; avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners if the specimen has visible fractures or significant porosity.
Rarity & Value
Relatively Common; Value is determined by the clarity of the vascular 'rod' patterns and ease of polish. Sold by the pound or piece.
Special Characteristics
Features visible transverse sections of fossilized vascular bundles (rod-like structures) often appearing as dots or spots on the surface.
Lore & History
Historically used as a talisman for longevity; traditionally believed to aid in grounding and connecting to ancient Earth energies and past lives.