Petrified Wood Fragment
cf. Araucarioxylon • Body fossil, plant (permineralized wood)
Geological Period
Triassic to Jurassic
Estimated Age
150 to 200 million years
Preservation Type
Silicification (permineralization by quartz/chalcedony replacing original organic cellular structure)
Condition Assessment
Fair; heavily weathered, waterworn, lacking fine anatomical details or complete structural integrity
Taxonomic Classification
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Pinopsida, Order: Pinales, Family: Araucariaceae
Morphological Description
Elongated, irregularly shaped fragment displaying crystalline quartz substitution with a granular, sugary texture. Lacks clear external bark or visible microscopic growth rings in this view, showing an amorphous, weathered outer surface with minor iron-oxide staining.
Rock Matrix
None attached; isolated mineralized fragment
Formation & Location
Chinle Formation, Petrified Forest, Arizona, USA, or similar continental sedimentary deposits globally
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 4 cm in length by 2 cm in width
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$5 - $15
Auction Estimate
$0 - $10
Rarity Assessment
Common
Scientific Significance
Illustrates the process of permineralization and ancient terrestrial paleoenvironments, though limited in specific taxonomic utility due to severe weathering
Preparation Recommendations
No intensive preparation required; can be washed gently with mild soap and water to remove surface dirt. Store in a dry environment.
Notable Features
Features a small, localized spot of reddish-orange iron oxide (hematite/limonite) staining on the surface