Representative ImageFossil Plants
·Real Fossil
Polished Triassic Petrified Wood Slice from Madagascar
- Real Fossil
- 220 million years
- Ships worldwide
£10.99
● In stock — dispatched within 2 working days
A vibrant, hand-polished slice of petrified wood from the Triassic of Madagascar, showcasing 200 million years of botanical history. These specimens are typically 1cm deep and 5.5-9cm wide and tall.
Specimen Record
DTF-20476C54Representative image
Photographs show a typical example. Your item will be similar but not identical.
- Species
- Not recorded
- Identification confidence
- Not recorded
- Age
- 220 million years
- Geological period
- Triassic
- Formation
- Not recorded
- Locality
- Madagascar
- Dimensions
- Not recorded
- Weight
- Not recorded
Condition & Treatment
- Repair
- Not recorded
- Restoration
- Not recorded
- Stabilisation
- Not recorded
- Polishing
- Not recorded
- Composite
- Not recorded
"Not recorded" means we hold no verified record for that detail — it is not a claim either way.
Curator Note
Madagascan specimens are world-renowned for their superior preservation. Unlike fossilised wood from other regions, these slices often retain clear growth rings and bark textures, providing a vivid record of the seasonal growth patterns of the Triassic period.
At a Glance
Type
Genuine fossil
Display
Excellent — the flat, polished surface is ideal for laying flat or resting on a plate stand.
About This Fossil
This exquisite slice of petrified wood originates from the Triassic forests of Madagascar, dating back over 200 million years. During this era, the island was part of the supercontinent Gondwana, dominated by towering conifers and cycads. The specimen has been expertly cut and painstakingly polished on one side to reveal the intricate cellular structures of the original ancient timber.
The aesthetic appeal of Madagascan petrified wood lies in its vibrant mineral replacement. These hues are the result of trace elements present during the fossilisation process—iron oxides yielding deep reds and ochres, while silicates provide the translucent, agate-like finishes. Each piece is a unique natural sculpture, bridging the gap between historical botany and mineralogy.
Formation & Preservation
This specimen was formed through the process of permineralisation. Following a rapid burial by volcanic ash or fluvial sediments, the organic matter of the fallen tree was slowly replaced by silica-rich groundwater. Over millions of years, the wood decayed at a molecular level, allowing minerals to crystallise within the cell walls, effectively turning the timber into stone while preserving its structural integrity.
What Makes This Specimen Special
Madagascan specimens are world-renowned for their superior preservation. Unlike fossilised wood from other regions, these slices often retain clear growth rings and bark textures, providing a vivid record of the seasonal growth patterns of the Triassic period.
Authenticity & Sourcing
Real vs Replica
- This is a genuine fossil — not a replica unless clearly stated. Clearly described and honestly presented.
- You will receive a specimen similar to the one shown — see Natural Variation below.
Ethical Sourcing
- Sourced from established suppliers and known commercial sites. We do not buy from localities we know to be protected, scientifically restricted, or subject to export controls. Origin and sourcing information is shared where known.
- ✓We will not knowingly handle specimens removed in breach of any country's heritage or export laws.
Origin & Natural Variation
Stated origin (Madagascar) are based on supplier information and available geological references. Identification can vary in certainty — especially for fragments — so where exact locality cannot be independently verified, we describe the formation rather than a single quarry.
Fossils are natural objects. Expect minor variation in colour, surface texture, and matrix, mineralisation and surface detail. Treatment information is shown under Condition & Treatment where it is recorded. “Not recorded” means we hold no verified record for that detail; it is not a claim that no treatment occurred.
Read our full authenticity & honest descriptions policy or the authenticity & sourcing clause in our terms.
Shipping, Returns & Packaging
• UK shipping: Free on orders of £50 or more. Standard £4.95 (Royal Mail Tracked 48, typically 2–3 working days after dispatch).
• International: Available worldwide. Rates at checkout.
• Packaging: Individually wrapped, cushioned, and boxed. Fragile specimens receive extra protection.
• Dispatch: Within 2 working days (framed, mounted, or made-to-order pieces take 1 additional working day).
• Returns: 30-day returns. Contact us first. Item must be in original condition.