Petrified "Colla" Wood, Zile, Turkey

"Colla Wood" from Zile, Turkey is an absolutely fascinating material that bridges the mineral and fossil worlds. The agatized white pine found near Zile lies over a copper deposit and has absorbed an array of colourful minerals. This piece is true to its named and is richly-coloured by blue-green chrysocolla. Small, red-brown cuprite crystals are present too, along with orange siderite, all within white chalcedony (agate). This slice clearly shows growth rings and has ample bark around most of its perimeter. Note that the chalcedony fluoresces! These colourful petrified woods are truly beautiful and the source in Turkey is now depleted. Possibly of Miocene age. Zile, Tolkat Province, Turkey. Dimensions: 12 cm x 16 cm