Featured in this lot is this17lb 2oz rainbow petrified wood mineral sample. The sample features a wonderfully and professionally crafted petrified wood construction that shows a rainbow coloration layered to the top of the sample. Petrified wood exhibits rainbow-like colors due to the presence of various minerals that replaced the original organic material during the fossilization process. The "rainbow effect" occurs when a variety of these minerals are present, creating a wide spectrum of colors, much like a rainbow. Unlike other types of fossils which are typically impressions or compressions, petrified wood is a three-dimensional representation of the original organic material. The petrifaction process occurs underground, when wood becomes buried under sediment or volcanic ash and is initially preserved due to a lack of oxygen which inhibits aerobic decomposition. Mineral-laden water flowing through the covering material deposits minerals in the plant's cells; as the plant's decay, a stone mold forms in its place. The organic matter needs to become petrified before it decomposes completely. The process lasts millions of years. All the organic materials have been replaced with minerals while retaining the original structure of the limb. The condition of this sample of petrified wood is well preserved with some natural impact to the sample but otherwise shows a well preserved condition. The measurements of this sample is 5" x 9 7/8" x 7 1/2". The collective weight of this petrified wood is 17lb 2oz.