Kivettyneisiin

Kivettyneisiin refers to petrified wood, also known as fossilized wood. This is a type of fossil, a remnant of a former living organism that has been replaced by minerals, or the mold or cast of such a remnant. The process of petrification occurs over long periods when wood is buried by sediment, such as volcanic ash or river silt. The minerals in the water that seep through the sediment are deposited in the spaces of the wood cells, eventually replacing the organic material entirely.

Common minerals that contribute to petrification include silica, calcite, and pyrite. The color of petrified wood is determined by the minerals present. For example, iron compounds can cause red, orange, and yellow hues, while manganese can produce blue and purple colors. The original cellular structure of the wood is often preserved in great detail, allowing for the identification of the type of tree from which it came. Petrified wood is considered a rock and is used for decorative purposes and in construction. Famous locations for petrified wood include the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, USA, and the Lesbos Petrified Forest in Greece. The study of petrified wood is part of paleobotany, which focuses on the study of fossil plants.