PETRIFIED WOOD

Petrified wood [Greek 'petro' which means Rock] are fossilized wood, which with the passage of time, has turned into 'stone' through permineralization.  

Petrified Wood began as a living tree, which then lay in mineral-rich water. When water was infused with volcanic ash, the molecules of wood were replaced to the extent that no organic material remained. The rings and knots remained visible and mineral impurities created beautiful color. Polishing reveals these color, just as challenges polishes the soul; thus, Petrified Wood represents the strength and beauty of soul.