Petrified Spruce Wood Slice - Picea sp.

The Science

The petrification process occurs when wood becomes buried under sediment, such as volcanic ash (most petrified wood is associated with volcanic activity), and is preserved due to a lack of oxygen, inhibiting aerobic decomposition. Over millions of years, water bearing silica trickles down through the sediment and the silica forms crystals in the cells and hollows of the wood. Eventually the wood is completely mineralized, often preserving minute structural detail. The different minerals in groundwater are what give petrified wood its variety of colors.

The Story

This petrified spruce wood slice has been hand-selected by the experts at The Evolution Store. It is a beautiful example of the type of petrified wood common in the Hubbard Basin in Nevada, USA, where this specimen was found. It would look beautiful hung on the wall, or used as a unique tray or trivet.