Permineraliseerimine

Permineraliseerimine is a geological process in which mineral-laden water infiltrates organic or inorganic material and precipitates minerals within the porosities or cavities of that material, preserving fine structural details. During permineralisation, the original organic matrix often decays, but the mineral deposits act as a mold, providing a detailed three‑dimensional record of the specimen. Common minerals involved include silica, calcite, pyrite, iron oxides, and hematite, each producing different textures and colors. The process typically occurs in sedimentary basins where the water table fluctuates and mineral-rich groundwater moves through porous layers.

Permineraliseerimine has played a crucial role in paleontology, allowing the preservation of fossils that would otherwise be lost. Fossilized insects, eggs, plant tissues, and even soft tissues, such as feathers or hair, can be retained as mineral casts. In addition to fossils, the technique offers insight into early diagenetic processes in sedimentary rocks, revealing the sequence of mineral precipitation and the geochemical environment at the time of formation. Studying permineralised specimens aids in reconstructing past climates, biodiversity, and the evolution of ecosystems.

The term originated in Estonian geology literature, describing a phenomenon widely observed worldwide. Modern analytical methods such as scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction enable researchers to characterize mineral assemblages at the micrometer scale, refining interpretations of permineralisation pathways. Overall, permineraliseerimine is a key natural preservation mechanism that bridges sedimentology, mineralogy, and evolutionary biology, providing detailed windows into the Earth's ancient past.